What it isn't

from anovagrrl - Friday, February 06, 2004
accessed 1280 times

There is a somewhat persuasive argument against exposing FCF as a funding source for Family missionaries that goes something like this: If TF members and leadership feel too much pressure on this issue from the exer community, they will cry "persecution" and cut off all contact between those still in TF and those of us who have left. I have little brothers and sisters to look out for.

Exposing a publically incorporated non-profit organization on the issue of who it funds and the relationship of "independent missionaries" to a cult accused of crimes against humanity is not persecution. This sort of activity is generally falls under the ruberic of "social justice." TF and FCF are NOT the victims.

Attempting the silence the victims by threatening to cut off contact with vulnerable family members who remain in the cult is a form of coersive intimidation. For those of you who ask, "Why didn't my parents protect me? Why did they let such-and-such happen?", think about this: coersive intimidation is a major Family tactic that contributed to your victimization. Your silence will not prevent Family members from continuing to use the tactics of bullies. The silence of your mothers and fathers, leveraged on the fear of loosing all contact with their children, did not prevent Family perpetrators from doing what they did to you.

If you cannot speak for justice because you fear the consequences to your loved ones, please do not blame those who speak out now for what Family members choose to do in response to a legitimate call for accountability. Bullies and cowards are responsible for their own actions and choices. Those who stand up to them are not.