The Archdiocese of New York has announced the establishment of a substantial $300 million fund aimed at compensating victims of sexual abuse who have taken legal action against the church. Cardinal Timothy Dolan made the announcement on March 4, 2024, detailing that the fund will be financed through budget reductions and the sale of assets, including the completion of the sale of its former headquarters located in Manhattan.
In his statement, Cardinal Dolan emphasized the intention behind the fund, stating that it is designed to ensure survivors of sexual abuse receive compensation. The archdiocese aims to address the financial claims of approximately 1,300 outstanding cases against it, with officials expressing hope that this fund will cover settlements for the majority, if not all, of these claims.
Engaging a Mediator for Settlements
To facilitate negotiations between the archdiocese and victims, the church has engaged retired Judge Daniel J. Buckley as a mediator. Buckley previously played a similar role in negotiations between the Archdiocese of Los Angeles and over 1,000 claimants there. His experience is expected to bring a structured approach to the settlement process.
Cardinal Dolan’s announcement coincided with a significant development in the realm of clergy sexual abuse settlements, as a federal judge approved a $230 million settlement for the New Orleans Archdiocese. This resolution was reached following the archdiocese’s bankruptcy filing in 2020, which aimed to streamline the handling of numerous abuse claims.
The establishment of the $300 million fund marks a notable step for the Archdiocese of New York in addressing the long-standing issue of sexual abuse within its ranks. As the church seeks to provide financial redress to survivors, it also reflects a growing trend among religious organizations to confront past abuses more openly.
With these developments, the Archdiocese of New York is taking significant steps toward accountability and healing for victims, marking a pivotal moment in its ongoing efforts to address the consequences of past actions.
