Complaint of institutional violence
Several people who have suffered sexual abuse have expressed their displeasure towards the Parliament of Catalonia, accusing it of perpetrating an act of “institutional violence”. These victims have pointed out that the recent awarding of the Gold Medal to the Abbey of Montserrat is a gesture that can be “retraumatizing”. Enric Soler, one of those affected, has sent a letter to the legislative chamber requesting that they reconsider this decision, describing the Abbey as “ground zero of the crisis of clerical pederasty” within the country.
Consequences of a controversial decision
Soler emphasized that granting this recognition represents “rewarding extremely harmful behavior for children”, sending a dangerous message to institutions, suggesting that entities with political influence can act outside the law. This feeling of lack of protection is recurrent, as victims are often crushed by a culture of silence that seems to protect institutions instead of ensuring truth and justice.
Criticism of the lack of support for victims
In this press conference, Enric Soler was accompanied by Miguel Hurtado, another victim, who expressed his disappointment by stating that he felt “very much abused by an institution” such as the Bureau of Parliament. Hurtado emphasized that the consequences of sexual abuse have left many lives devastated, and that what was happening inside the church was common knowledge. He also made an alarming observation about the abuses that may be occurring today, stating that “at this time, children continue to be victims of abuse at summer camps.”
Rejection of the tribute without change of stance
Both Miguel Hurtado and Enric Soler agreed that Parliament must accept its responsibility and, on the other hand, rejected any attempt to pay tribute to the victims if the medal is kept in the Abbey. Soler was forceful with his words: “Let them not count on us, let them go and graze mud.” The victims have announced that, if Parliament does not reconsider the situation, they will carry out a protest in front of the chamber on September 10, the day on which the medals will be handed out.
Defensive position of the Parliament
After the letter was presented against the awarding of the medal to the Abbey of Montserrat, the Bureau of the Parliament has decided not to revoke the distinction. Official sources indicated that, despite the “very serious episodes” of abuse, the Abbey is considered “a millennial institution”, and therefore its award will not be modified. The Bureau pointed out that it is aware of the abuses perpetrated by the Church, but that its effort in the investigation commission on these crimes must be recognized.
Commitment to victims
Despite the complaints of the victims, the president of the Parliament, Josep Rull, has stated that he is ready to receive the affected people to show his “support and empathy”. The Medal of Honor, which is the highest distinction awarded by Parliament, is given to those people and institutions that have stood out for their commitment to the country. This distinction has been awarded to figures such as the musician Jordi Savall, the cook Carme Ruscalleda, and other prominent institutions.
Reflection on institutional behavior
This situation provokes deep reflection on how institutions approach the issue of institutional violence, especially when it affects victims of abuse. The granting of honors to institutions with a history of conflict generates a debate about responsibility, shame and the need to prioritize the voices of those who have suffered. It is essential that the authorities acknowledge the pain of the victims and work to prevent history from repeating itself in the future at a societal level.
