A local advocate for survivors of clergy abuse has now filed a statement of claim against the RC Episcopal Corporation and priest Denis Walsh.

Pathways founder, Gemma Hickey filed the suit to seek justice for them and other survivors. Hickey says they’ve been calling for structural changes in the Catholic church for a long time.

Hickey says this is the next step for them after walking 908 km across the province to raise awareness, travelling to Rome to speak with cardinals, and speaking with local authorities.

Like many survivors, Hickey says they’ve struggled with depression and anxiety. They hope that by speaking out will let others know that they matter.

In order to be specific in the statement of claim, Hickey had to revisit the things that happened to them, which has been difficult. They hope it allows others realize they are not alone.

Hickey says moving forward with the statement of claim has been the biggest decision of their life. Hickey says the secrecy within the Catholic church has continued for too long. Hickey says “change takes risk,” and that means people need to speak out in order to hold institutions accountable.

Hickey says they are doing what they can to find peace in their life, and help others. Hickey decided against using a pseudonym in the statement of claim for that reason. As an outspoken advocate, they felt they needed to own it all the way.