Cindy Clemishire, a courageous survivor of childhood sexual abuse, recently shared her harrowing story before the Texas House Judiciary and Civil Jurisprudence Committee. Her testimony supports House Bill 748, affectionately known as "Trey’s Law," which aims to prohibit nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) in civil settlements involving victims of child sex abuse and trafficking. This bill is a significant step toward justice and healing for survivors like Clemishire, who are often silenced by legal agreements that prioritize the interests of abusers over the well-being of victims.
At 55 years old, Clemishire recounted the traumatic experiences she endured at the hands of Robert Morris, the founder of Gateway Church in Southlake, Texas. According to Clemishire, the abuse began when she was just 12 years old and continued for several years. It wasn’t until she reached the age of 35 that she fully accepted the reality of her abuse. "I was 35 the first time I truly accepted and believed that he abused me, that it was criminal," she stated, emphasizing the long road to healing that many survivors face.
Clemishire’s story is not just hers; it resonates with many who have faced similar struggles. She spoke about the shame that lingered for years, a burden she carried as if it were her own fault. "At 17, when I told, I felt as though I was the one at fault," she recalled. This sentiment highlights a common theme among survivors—feeling responsible for the actions of their abusers, often exacerbated by societal pressures and misconceptions about abuse.
The impetus for "Trey’s Law" stems from the tragic story of Trey Carlock, who took his own life shortly before his 29th birthday in 2019. Trey had signed an NDA to settle a child sex abuse claim against Kanakuk Kamps, a Christian summer camp in Missouri. His sister, Elizabeth Phillips, passionately testified before the committee, revealing the devastating impact the NDA had on Trey’s mental health. "My brother referred to his settlement as blood money as if he had betrayed his own soul to keep Kanakuk secrets, and it killed him," Phillips said. Her heartfelt plea emphasizes the urgent need for legislative change to protect future victims from similar fates.
The Texas House Judiciary and Civil Jurisprudence Committee unanimously approved the bill, which is now set to move to the full House for consideration. If passed, it will require approval from the Texas Senate and the governor before becoming law. Advocates hope that this legislation will empower survivors to speak out without fear of legal repercussions and encourage more victims to come forward.
Clemishire’s testimony and the push for "Trey’s Law" serve as a reminder of the importance of addressing child sexual abuse within faith communities and society at large. Churches and organizations must prioritize the safety and well-being of their congregants, ensuring that victims are heard and supported rather than silenced.
As the conversation around child sexual abuse and trafficking continues to evolve, it is crucial for communities to rally behind survivors and advocate for laws that protect them. The journey toward justice is often fraught with challenges, but with continued support and legislative action, there is hope for healing and change.
For more information about the ongoing efforts to support survivors of abuse and the legislative changes being proposed, you can visit organizations like RAINN and The National Child Traumatic Stress Network. These resources provide vital support and information for survivors and advocates alike, fostering a community of healing and empowerment.