Cohousing-L Mailing List: Screening prospective members for sexual abuse in their background

[Jim Bronson (jimbronsonashland]

Wow, interesting sharings on the listserv showing how we can see this issue
so differently.  Thanks to all who have weighed in.  I believe getting this
mentionable and considered will strengthen our communities.

Full disclosure: I was sexually abused by a dear person to me who happened
to be a catholic priest.  To be completely clear, if a catholic priest
showed up as a prospective member at River Song I would be needing to find
out about his relationship history, any behavioral treatment he may have
experienced, and what his addictions may be.

Does that disadvantage anybody?  Does that discriminate against people who
have grown and learned after a mistake made earlier in their lives?  I am
sorry for that, if it is so, but this is the best I can do in a complex
situation where I feel justified in building a safe environment and being
more at ease from predatory assaults.

Thanks for considering this difficult and nuanced issue.  I would love to
continue a respectful exchange with any who will

Jim Bronson
River Song Cohousing Community
Eugene, Oregon
jimbronsonashland [at] gmail.com