Complainants in Pell case

Twelve of the children in this photo later suicided because of the trauma of the sexual abuse they suffered at a Ballarat school. Child rape was rife for decades in Ballarat and most of us know survivors or those who didn't make it. I live in Ballarat.  There are literally hundreds of child rape survivors from this town. Don't believe me read the royal commission transcripts. We are the epicentre of abuse in Australia. Ribbons of support flutter on the church railings in support of survivors and victims and we tie them on our letter boxes. I've got some working background as well and also previously advised the WA attorney general on how best to legislate and support victims of crime and was for many years on the WA protective behaviours board which taught children how to protect themselves from pedophiles. I also teach protective behaviours on a voluntary basis in little Victorian country schools. Enough about me.  Currently there is a case before the courts involving Cardinal Pell but I will not be commenting on this as it is sub judice and a matter for the courts. He is entitled to the presumption of innocence.What does concern me is the fact that our former prime minister thought it was acceptable to comment favourably on George Pell.  This transgresses the law just as much as unfavourable comment. It is prejudicial!  There has recently been a media campaign to raise money for Cardinal Pell. This would have been extremely hurtful to alleged victims who woke up to the headlines.  Regardless of any court outcome everyone's basic human rights must be respected. The complainants and their families (including the families of the men  who suicided) involved in the Pell case are going to need emotional and financial support and counselling.  Everyone deserves respect and I think financial assistance to the complainants would help them through this rocky period and beyond.  The monies will be equally divided as inkind  payments such as counselling utility's rent house payments food vouchers and healing experiences such as holidays. If I exceed my target the balance will be donated to mothers of victims of clergy abuse who lost their child to suicide . I know some of these women and my heart aches for them. If you are short of funds tie a ribbon to your fence in support or like or share this on Facebook. It shows you care. But if you can please donate.