Speech given at the solidarity march for victims of sexual abuse by clergy. Boston. 6/23/02


There are still some days when the wounded boy in me asks, "why?" And I apologize to him and tell him I'm sorry. But mostly, I don't have the words. So I simply consider the tears that roll down my cheeks as the questions themselves. And I live them as best as I can.
As I grow and mature, I recognize that life itself is bigger than me, than my experience. So today I stand here for the children of tomorrow, that they may be safe, strong, free.
To my wounded brothers and sisters, all survivors, in California, Texas, Chicago, New Hampshire, New York and Florida, I support every one of you to find your voice and speak truth to power.
To my brothers and sisters in Ireland, Germany, Poland, Canada and Australia. You who have endured, I support you to find your voice and speak truth to power.
I share with you some words from singer/songwriter Tracey Chapman............

say it, say it, say it
tell it like it is
say it, say it, say it
so everyone can hear
say you'll never close your eyes
or pretend that its' a rosy world
say you'll never try to paint what is rotten
with a sugarcoat
say you'll talk about the horrors you've seen
and the torments you know
tell it like it is

say it, say it, say it
tell it like it is
say it, say it, say it
so no one can forget.

Steven Lynch