Support for survivors
Sexual Abuse in the BSA
Over 80,000 survivors of sexual abuse have filed claims against the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) for abuse they suffered at the hands of scout leaders and volunteers. In September 2023, Netflix released a documentary about this abuse. Entitled Scouts Honor: The Secret Files of the Boy Scouts of America, the film shines a light on the need to hold institutions accountable and ensure that all survivors have access to the healing and justice they deserve.
This page provides information, resources, and support for anyone who has been impacted by sexual abuse within the Boy Scouts of America (BSA). We believe you, and you are not alone.
We Stand with Survivors
The sexual abuse perpetrated within the Boy Scouts of America has impacted countless lives. To the survivors of the abuse, as well as their family members, partners, and friends, this is more than a story in the news or a documentary on our screens. SurvivorSpace and Zero Abuse Project stand with all survivors of sexual abuse, both within and outside the BSA.
SurvivorSpace and Zero Abuse Project are committed to supporting survivors of sexual abuse. Read our press release.
SurvivorSpace survivors and subject matter experts offer their support to BSA survivors. Read our blog post.
View the recording of Jeff’s SurvivorCircle presentation, where he shared his story of scouting abuse and answered questions.
Media About Abuse in the BSA
Official trailer for Scouts Honor: The Secret Files of the Boy Scouts of America. The complete documentary is available on Netflix.
Panel discussion featuring actor and survivor Anthony Edwards; former BSA Director of Youth Protection Mike Johnson; and BSA abuse survivor and Zero Abuse Project CEO, Jeff Dion
Jeff Dion, survivor of sexual abuse in the BSA, Eagle Scout, and CEO of Zero Abuse Project, shares his story
Mike Johnson, former Director of Youth Protection at the BSA, whistleblower, and board member at Zero Abuse Project, speaks out
Additional documentary about sexual abuse in the Boy Scouts: Scout Master, a Fault Lines Documentary, published by Al Jazeera
John-Michael Lander, a survivor, author, and public speaker, writes about his abuse experience while in the Boy Scouts
Information & Resources
Below are links to additional information and resources to support male survivors.
1in6.org offers resources specifically for male survivors of sexual abuse, including survivor stories and free, confidential, weekly online support groups for male survivors of sexual assault or abuse.
The Boy Scouts of America compensation calculator can assist claimants in estimating a settlement amount they might expect to receive. Please consult with an attorney about your rights and your specific claim.
The laws that govern civil litigation in sexual abuse cases are determined at the state level in part by statutes of limitations (SOLs) that apply where the abuse occurred. Read our tip sheet about SOLs.
Choosing an attorney to represent you in civil litigation related to sexual abuse is one of the most important decisions you can make, but what should you look for in an attorney? Check out our tip sheet with practical advice when searching for and selecting a qualified attorney to represent you.
At right, our Sample Litigation Intake Form for CSA Survivors is a free and confidential tool to help you gather the information you will need when speaking with an attorney about your case.Â
Male Survivors Speak Out
Join the Conversation
Join the SurvivorSpace community on social media, or share your thoughts on our anonymous, chat-based SurvivorForum.
