For Immediate Release:
September 26, 2017
Contact:
Matthew Nocella, 202.724.8105 - mnocella@dccouncil.us
Grosso statement on the death of SNAP founder Barbara Blaine
Washington, D.C. – Councilmember David Grosso (I-At Large) released the following statement on the death of Barbara Blaine, founder and former president of the Survivors Network of Those Abused by Priests (SNAP):
“My wife Serra Sippel and I are deeply saddened to learn of the sudden death of our friend Barbara Blaine. For three decades, she dedicated her life to giving voice to the voiceless. Those who have suffered unimaginable trauma at the hands of clergy lost a powerful and relentless advocate.
“For more than a decade, Serra and I had the opportunity to work with Barbara on holding the Catholic Church accountable for the abuse of minors at the hands of priests. Just over two years ago, Barbara reached out to me urging me to stand up for survivors of childhood sexual abuse in the District of Columbia. Her wealth of knowledge, tireless effort, and collaboration were instrumental in the development and introduction of the Childhood Protection Against Sexual Abuse Amendment Act in 2015. I re-introduced it this year and it is currently under consideration by the Council of the District of Columbia.
“Barbara reminds us that our lives are most impactful when lived in service of those who are most vulnerable. We must honor her life by continuing her work.”
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