S2E86: Sister Cathy, Uniting for Survivors - The Battle for Transparency
Gemma and survivor Donna find themselves at the forefront of a critical moment in the fight against clergy abuse in the Archdiocese of Baltimore. This episode captures the essence of a pivotal press conference where SNAP (Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests), their attorneys, Gemma, and Donna unite to advocate for the full disclosure of a comprehensive report on child sexual abuse within the church.
The episode delves into the context of this significant legal and moral battle. The Maryland Attorney General's 456-page report, the culmination of an extensive investigation, documents the abuse of over 600 victims at the hands of 158 Catholic priests within the Archdiocese of Baltimore (AOB). Attorney General Brian Frosh has handed over this report to the courts, advocating for its public release and highlighting numerous attempts by the Archdiocese to cover up the abuse.
Gemma and Donna, alongside other survivors like Jean and Teresa, are not just passive observers but active participants in this process, having filed with the court to ensure their voices are heard. The episode explores their motivations, the emotional weight of their advocacy, and the importance of this report in acknowledging and addressing the systemic failures that allowed such abuse to continue unchecked.
Listeners are taken behind the scenes of the press conference, hearing firsthand the impassioned pleas for transparency and justice. The episode also critically examines the Archdiocese of Baltimore's stance on the matter, particularly in light of their financial support for an anonymous group seeking to prevent the report's release.
This episode of Foul Play is a rallying cry for accountability, a spotlight on the courage of survivors, and a call to action for listeners to engage with this ongoing struggle. For more information and to join the conversation, visit itsfoulplay.com. "Uniting for Survivors – The Battle for Transparency" is not just an episode; it's a testament to the power of collective voices demanding change and the ongoing pursuit of truth and healing in the aftermath of profound betrayal.