Subject: Urgent Petition for Comprehensive Child Protection in All Schools, Including Strict Religious Institutions

I left the Amish in 2005 due to the rampant unreported child abuse involving severe corporal punishment and child sexual assault. Unfortunately, many strict religions strongly discourage or even forbid reporting child abuse.

 

 

The protection of children from abuse is a fundamental imperative that transcends institutional boundaries and mandates a comprehensive approach to safeguarding their well-being. The proposed enforcement mechanisms outlined in this petition are essential for ensuring compliance and accountability across diverse educational settings. By advocating for a uniform standard of protection and fostering a culture of vigilance against abuse in all fifty states, we aim to create a safer environment for all children.

We recognize the sensitive nature of balancing religious freedom with child protection. However, educational resources that respect diverse religious beliefs must be available while upholding the core principles of safeguarding children from harm.

 

 

Erin's Law, already in effect in some states, is legislation designed to help prevent child sexual abuse by requiring schools to implement age-appropriate sexual abuse awareness and prevention education programs for students. The law aims to empower children with knowledge and skills to recognize and report abuse, as well as provide resources and support for victims. However, Erin’s Law allows each state the authority to pass its own version. It may not include private, parochial, religious, and home schools because they are not subject to the same regulations. 

It is a heartbreaking reality that in some religious and private settings, the fear of reprisal, ostracism, or eternal damnation can silence victims and prevent them from seeking help. The insidious nature of abuse thrives in environments where reporting is actively discouraged, perpetuating cycles of trauma and suffering for vulnerable children.

 

 

Therefore, for the safety of all children:

-Erin’s Law should be expanded to cover private, parochial, religious, and home schools in all fifty states.

-Ensure that unlicensed teachers in private and religious schools undergo mandated reporter training.

-Mandate mandated reporter training for homeschool teachers and incorporate Erin's Law into the curriculum.

While religious freedom is essential, it does not supersede the duty to protect children and cannot be used to shield abusers. Age-appropriate materials that do not violate basic religious principles can be provided.

Enforcement is problematic as these are private institutions, but they can be enacted. It can be enforced through one or more of these measures. 1) Make school administrators, staff, educators, board members, and homeschool parents who do not comply civilly and/or criminally accountable for repeated abuse. 2) Make compliance a condition to be eligible to use vouchers or receive other public grants. 3) Only recognize diplomas from a compliant school or homeschool. Without compliance, the diploma should not be valid as an educational certificate requiring a GED.  4) This should be a requirement for the granting and maintaining tax-exempt status. (Requires Federal action).

By working together, we can ensure that every child, regardless of their educational setting, is afforded the protection they deserve! Please join me in making history by demanding Congress pass a Child Rights Act!

Sincerely,

Misty Griffin mistygriffin.com

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