The Catholic Church Sexual Abuse Scandal in Canada
Allegations of sexual abuse within the Catholic Church in Canada began to emerge publicly in the latter half of the 20th century, although survivors have since reported that incidents occurred as early as the 1940s and 1950s. Clergy often held positions of trust and authority, which created opportunities for abuse to occur in numerous parishes, schools, and care facilities.
Beginning in the 1980s and 1990s, a number of cases attracted widespread public attention. High-profile investigations, such as those involving the Mount Cashel Orphanage in Newfoundland and clergy in various dioceses, revealed repeated instances of abuse. In many cases, Church officials were found to have reassigned accused priests rather than reporting allegations to civil authorities.
In response to the growing number of disclosures, some Catholic dioceses and religious orders in Canada have issued apologies, introduced safeguarding policies, and contributed to compensation programs. While these actions have been significant, survivors and advocates continue to call on the Catholic Church for more to be done.
