We commend Penn State for releasing their internal report on the Jerry Sandusky sexual abuse case. As expected, the report shows a total disregard for the safety and welfare of children by the leadership of Penn State. This report must serve as an impetus for change. In spite of what we would like to believe, what happened at Penn State is not an isolated incident. We know that many organizations do not have the necessary policies and procedures in place to protect children from sexual abuse and this is unacceptable.
It is shocking to read that the administration at Penn State believed they were handling the Sandusky situation “humanely.” The reality is that lack of policy and the fear of repercussions to the university resulted in a serial pedophile walking freely for 14 years to further molest dozens of children. The actions were a failure of top Penn State leadership to react responsibly and protect further children from harm.
The time is now for all organizations to be more responsible, and play a greater role in the protection of children. Today’s organizations must do better and can have a direct and positive impact on our culture by raising the standards of protection. We must all recognize the duty of adults to report abuse. We must all insist on policy. We must all protect children.
Read the full report here.
