Abused Nuns Join Call for Justice, Reject 'Culture of Silence'

A Rome-based congregation which represents over 500,000 nuns is offering support to women sexually abused by members of the Catholic church in honor of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.

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In a statement, the members of the International Union of Superiors General (USIG) said, “We condemn those who support the culture of silence and secrecy, often on the pretext of 'protecting' the reputation of an institution or considering it 'part of their culture.'”

The 2,000 mother superiors said any sexual, verbal, or emotional abuse that impairs the dignity, health, or development of a victim is unacceptable.

"We advocate for transparent civil and criminal complaints of abuse, whether within religious congregations, at the parish or diocesan level or in any public space," the USIG said.

For decades, the Vatican has turned a blind eye to episodes of abuse carried out by priests against nuns around the world, the Associated Press reported earlier this year.

“We ask that any nun who has suffered abuses inform the head of her congregation, the Church and the civil authorities, as deemed most appropriate," said the USIG.

The organization of sisters assured their utmost support to abuse victims, to listen to their stories, and assist in their journey for justice.

The USIG pledged to “work in collaboration with the civil and Church authorities to help those who have suffered abuse to heal the past through a process of accompaniment, search for justice and investment in the prevention of abuse through collaborative training and education programs for children, women and men.”