The Jewish Orthodox world is grappling with serious and multiple allegations of abuse by a trusted therapist and author of a plethora of children's literature. Literature designed to teach children to speak about their feelings, to educate them about trust in themselves, in others, and in God. Walder has betrayed an entire generation of children and parents who are now left wondering...If a man like Walder can fool us and abuse innocent children, Is trust in anyone ever possible again? How do we trust our intuition to know who is safe?
As an advocate for survivors of sexual abuse I am publishing two letters that I received from two different survivors of childhood sexual abuse. The first is directed to Chaim Walder. The second is addressed to his victims.
Dear Chaim Walder,
As a survivor of childhood sexual abuse I have something important to say to you....
When you chose to use your victims for your fleeting moments of pleasure, I’m sure you assumed they would never speak out and you’d be safe forever as you continued to groom the international Jewish community into trusting and admiring you. Here’s the thing though, those moments you were willing to sell your soul for, permanently damaged the girls you saw as playthings. They will never ever be ok again because of what you did. And although they were “just kids” (ironic right, kids who are so insightful and deserve to be heard, I think I remember it being you who made sure to empower us all as kids to speak our stories), turned into adults and you don’t control adults the same way you control kids. So as someone who was hurt by someone just like you, I will sit back and observe your downfall, as I offer my unwavering support and love to those you hurt. I hope justice is served in this world for the sake of your victims, and that you receive the maximum punishment in the next world as well. I will be following the next series coming from Chaim Walder closely - “Adults Speak Out”
Dear brave survivors of Chaim Walder,
As a survivor of sexual abuse myself, I am here with you, support you and believe you. Always.
You are not alone.
I share your pain.
You have incredible courage and strength by speaking up.
You did nothing wrong, he's the one, and only one. Shame on him.
I believe you and always will.
You are a hero and survivor for speaking up. By doing so, you are saving so many others from being abused by him.
I look up to you and I am very touched by your incredible strength and courage.
I know it is so painful and horrible but you did nothing wrong. Shame on him.
You're body is clean and pure even if it doesn't feel that way.
By speaking up you are taking back control.
You deserve justice.
You deserve respect, support, and healing.
Sending you love, strength, and hope. I am praying for you. R.
