[SCA-AE] ANNOUNCE: Background check FAQ

[Karen Finnemore]

The focal points of my work and research have involved sexual
offenders, a large portion of which are child predators.  I know that
the cases involved with this decision are not all involving child
molestation, however this is applicable to all of the cases just the
same.  Parental involvement is the biggest, MOST effective method of
preventing any form of child abuse by a non-parental adult.  Being
involved with your children, knowing where they are and who they are
with is the first line of defense against crimes of this nature.  I do
not know where my opinions lie with this policy of back ground checks,
however I will step up on my soap box and preach parental involvement
until I am blue in the face.  Parents often have a six sense; fate
gave it to us for this purpose.  If someone doesn't feel right, don't
leave your children with them.  Instead of focusing on stranger
danger, focus on how to say no to people that they are familiar with,
and how to keep an open dialog with you if someone hurts them.  The
majority of people are victimized by someone they know; this includes
children.  Know where they are, who they are with and let them know
that you are involved.  This is called "target hardening," making your
child not an option for harm.

Renata the posh rot

> I have to agree with you there.  Way too overboard and a kneejerk a reaction
> for my taste.  Whatever happened to parents simply looking out for their
> kids?  And who would have to pay for this background check?  That could
> serverly limit the number of people willing to be an officer.  Having raised
> three kids in the SCA, I've always taken the responsibility to know where
> and with whom my kids were at all times and if I didn't like the person or
> felt uncomfortable with the situation, my kids were told no.  Personally I
> think this is a parental responsibility, not one that the SCA needs concern
> itself with.
> Juliana
>
> --

-- 
O Lord, help me to be pure... but not yet.  -Saint Augustine