Writing by Dr. Dannielle Blumenthal

In the past, the pedophile problem in Jewish schools, camps, etc. was completely hushed up. The victims were considered “troubled” and blamed. Of course there was also the social pressure not to talk, not to identify oneself as “damaged goods”, not to “shame the family” or ruin marriage opportunities. The criminals were protected — they “had families” and maybe “admitted they made a mistake” and got other jobs or perhaps ran to Israel. The community closed ranks around the bad guys and viciously attacked the advocates for justice. Shunning, threats, you name it. I am told that in one community when a victim disclosed, their house was burned to the ground. I remember the line that “you shouldn’t be a moser” and the crazy idea that a pedophile going to jail was to be avoided at all costs. I further remember the idea that the “therapist” should essentially protect the community rather than empower the victim. And how many times were drug prescriptions administered to women to keep them compliant. The above is a perspective from the religious community but clearly the problem was much more expansive. There is a terrible myth that Jews are immune from social ills. It must be smashed to bits with a hammer. Innocents have become drug addicts, homeless, and lived lives of depression and trauma because of lack of support. Some have gone to their deaths. All on the altar of misplaced pride.