New Orleans Archdiocese Files Bankruptcy Plan for Child Protection

The Archdiocese of New Orleans is making significant steps towards transparency and accountability in response to its ongoing bankruptcy proceedings and allegations of child sexual abuse. It plans to release personnel files of accused clergy and create a public archive detailing nearly 600 abuse claims, as part of a non-monetary settlement proposed to enhance child protection measures. Survivors have expressed skepticism about these reforms, with many arguing that such actions are long overdue, especially given the church's previous handling of abuse cases. The archdiocese has also proposed a $62.5 million settlement, which is far less than the survivors' demand of approximately $1 billion. Archbishop Gregory Aymond emphasized the church's commitment to protecting children and preventing future abuse while acknowledging the need for ongoing collaboration with abuse survivors. The bankruptcy case remains contentious, with a federal judge urging both sides to reach an agreement by late January 2024.