Charter against Sexual Coercion and Abuse

Sadly #MeToo stories seem to be as common in Pagan spiritual communities as they are everywhere else. This presents a particular challenge, as people often turn to these communities for healing and safety. Thus, when coercion and abuse has occurred within a spiritual community, it is highly probable that many members will not recognize it. The need to belong can make it difficult to doubt leadership or other respected members of a community. 

However, sexual coercion and  abuse is a serious issue and a heinous event. It is a form of violence. The term sexual violence is gaining acceptance and frequency of use.  While still affirming the body and consensuality, we stand united in our opposition of those in the role of spiritual teachers and leaders using pressure and coercion to achieve romantic and sexual favors from their students.   

All major spiritual and religious traditions share the fundamental values of speaking truthfully and acting in a manner that does not cause harm.

When we speak truth to power and shine a light on sexual coercion and abuse, we align ourselves with one of the most hallowed principles of humanity: truth. Furthermore, when we are aware of how our actions and the actions of others cause harm and then take steps to rectify that harm, we are guided by one of the highest social values in both spiritual and secular spheres: harming none.

Truth and non-harming are foundational principles that guide a competent response to abuse. A history of unaddressed sexual abuse in a community indicates that the training and cultural values of that community have been inadequate. It is our hope that all communities, especially those that have trouble addressing sexual coercion, abuse, and rape, will shift their priorities to serving truth and creating a safe environment for their members.

Therefore, we agree that any of our teachers, ceremony leaders, and others in positions of authority shall neither request nor require romantic or sexual contact with any students who seek them out.   If there is a change in the student-teacher dynamic, they should seek out leadership in these respective communities, detail the change in the dynamic, and end the student-teacher relationship.   That way there is no confusion on either party’s part that romantic or sexual acts are expected by a teacher.   

Students, seekers, and members of our respective organizations are encouraged to own their own voices.   Never feel embarrassed or ashamed for having clear boundaries and voicing those boundaries as clearly as possible so there is no confusion.   

Teachers and Leaders should avoid being alone with students, or in the event there is only one student present, should maintain personal and professional boundaries so no lines are crossed.

It is your responsibility as leadership to maintain professional boundaries and act in a manner befitting of a community leader.

In the event sexual coercion or abuse occurs, we encourage victims to contact key leaders immediately so they may quickly act.   We the undersigned stand united in these beliefs and principles.