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Home > Down to Earth Conversations > 96. Ken Clearwater - The Royal Commission of Inquiry, Healing from Abuse, and Changes the Must Be Made
Podcast: Down to Earth Conversations
Episode:

96. Ken Clearwater - The Royal Commission of Inquiry, Healing from Abuse, and Changes the Must Be Made
Category: Religion & Spirituality
Duration: 00:52:02
Publish Date: 2024-07-24 11:01:05
Description:

I have released this episode out of my usual rhythm because the day of release is a significant day in Aotearoa New Zealand. On this day, July 24, 2024, the Royal Commission of inquiry into Abuse in State and Faith-based Care released their final report. This report, which took six years to compile, details the abuse of thousands of New Zealand children and other vulnerable people while in the care of the state or faith based organisations. The report estimates that between 1950 and 1999, over 200,000 people suffered abuse while in the care of these organisations.  

Ken Clearwater, is himself a survivor of sexual abuse, and has been made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his 30 years of supporting other male survivors of abuse, and advocating for legislative change. He was one of those who regularly called for the government to launch a royal commission of inquiry, and we talk both about Ken's own journey, and the inquiry itself.  He has spoken at the United Nations about the work he is involved in in Aotearoa. 

Obviously there are things in this conversation that may be challenging to listen to, including mention of rape, sexual assault, and suicide. Please take care of yourself and stop listening or take breaks if you need to. Please use your own support structures, and make use of the links in the show notes to seek help if you need to. 

While there are some hard truths in this episode, it is ultimately an episode of hope. It is a conversation with a man who has grown something powerful from the evils he was put through. It is the story of how men have supported other men, and how goodness can thrive, even in the face of great evil. 

Find Ken's Ted Talk here. 

 

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