The Standard Predator

He worked with children in a job that was focused on children.

He worked with child advocates or at least people who have been educated to educate children.

He hid his sexual preferences/behavior.

He has never admitted he molested children.

He is not Kevin Clash.

He is a (former) coach and trainer i know who molested at least half a dozen children in conjunction with his job/coaching.

His victims have told the truth about abuse. He still denies everything.

Sesame Street needs to face this one straight. Let’s talk about child sexual abuse (allegations) and what it does to all of us.

Now.

S.

When S was little she loved Elmo. We did not get PBS on tv so we watched DVDs. I always associate Elmo with her babyhood.

The first time someone talked about her being “damaged goods” because she was a sexual assault survivor I was knocked back. In a country where women are paid and applauded for nudity, a little girl’s non-consensual abuse would make her “damaged goods?!”

Children are hurt, wounded, violated, and robbed by sexual abuse

But they are not damaged goods. Ever.

What damages us all most is when we hand the abuse of children over to the wolves and refuse to speak out and fight for the dignity and safety of every little girl who once loved Elmo.