The Archdiocese of New York announced on March 11, 2024, the establishment of a $300 million fund aimed at compensating victims of sexual abuse who have filed lawsuits against the church. Cardinal Timothy Dolan disclosed the archdiocese’s plan during a press conference, emphasizing the need for the fund to provide justice to survivors of abuse within the church.
To finance this fund, the archdiocese plans to implement budget reductions and liquidate certain assets, including the sale of its former headquarters located in Manhattan. Cardinal Dolan stated, “We are committed to ensuring that this fund can be set aside to provide compensation to survivors of sexual abuse.” The archdiocese’s commitment reflects a broader effort to address the ongoing crisis of clergy sexual abuse that has affected many dioceses across the United States.
In a significant move to facilitate dialogue between the archdiocese and the victims, retired Judge Daniel J. Buckley will serve as a mediator. Buckley has experience in mediating similar cases, notably during negotiations between the Archdiocese of Los Angeles and over 1,000 claimants. Cardinal Dolan expressed hope that Buckley’s involvement would lead to a fair and timely resolution for those seeking compensation.
The archdiocese’s spokesperson indicated that the newly established fund aims to cover settlements for the majority, if not all, of the approximately 1,300 outstanding claims against it. This initiative comes in the wake of a recent decision by a federal judge approving a $230 million settlement for the New Orleans Archdiocese, which had previously filed for bankruptcy in 2020 to manage numerous abuse claims more effectively.
The establishment of this fund marks a crucial step in the ongoing dialogue surrounding sexual abuse within the church, highlighting the archdiocese’s commitment to addressing the needs of survivors. As the landscape of accountability continues to evolve, the actions taken by the Archdiocese of New York may set a precedent for other dioceses grappling with similar issues.
The announcement underscores the increasing pressure on religious institutions to confront allegations of abuse and establish transparent mechanisms for reparations. The Archdiocese of New York’s proactive approach may also serve to restore trust within the community and demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding vulnerable individuals in the future.
