Healing and Advocacy: Dr. Jaime Romo's Journey
Episode Overview
Dr. Jaime Romo shares his experience of clergy abuse survival. Importance of breaking the taboo around child sexual abuse. Advocacy for systemic change and accountability in religious institutions. Role of compassion in transforming trauma into growth. NAASCA provides support and education for abuse survivors.
If you're here to help me, you're wasting your time. But if you're here because your liberation is bound up in mine, then let's work together.
In this enlightening episode of 'Stop Child Abuse Now,' Dr. Jaime Romo joins hosts Tanika Chambers and Penelope Dennis to explore the profound journey from being a survivor of clergy abuse to becoming a passionate advocate for systemic change. Dr. Romo, who has been a long-time NAASCA family member, shares his personal story, highlighting the importance of addressing childhood abuse and trauma. Growing up, Dr. Romo faced significant challenges, including cultural and familial struggles.
His experiences led him to connect with SNAP, the Survivors Network of Those Abused by Priests, where he found support and eventually took on a role of facilitation and advocacy. He confronted religious institutions, demanding accountability and justice for the victims. Throughout the discussion, Dr. Romo emphasizes the necessity of breaking the taboo surrounding discussions of child sexual abuse.
He compares the stigma to that of cancer in the past, advocating for a societal shift that encourages open dialogue and understanding. This change, he argues, is crucial for preventing abuse and supporting survivors. One of the key themes of the episode is the concept of post-traumatic growth. Dr. Romo discusses how individuals can transform their trauma into powerful resources for themselves and others.
He highlights the importance of compassion, not just as a feeling, but as an action that supports healing and prevents further harm. Dr. Romo's work involves facilitating meetings, writing articles, and participating in protests to challenge harmful systems. He shares a compelling quote by activist Lila Watson, which underscores the interconnectedness of liberation and healing. This philosophy drives his efforts to offer specific paths for survivors to redeem and transform their trauma. Ultimately, Dr.
Romo's story and advocacy work serve as an inspiring call to action for both individuals and communities to engage in meaningful efforts to end child abuse. The episode concludes with gratitude for Dr. Romo's contributions and an invitation for listeners to engage with the show and its mission.