Christian Youth Theater facing multiple allegations of sexual abuse

TW: The following story contains descriptions of sexual abuse.

A National youth theater organization is under fire over multiple allegations of sexual misconduct and other offenses such as bullying, racism, and homophobia. Leaders at Christian Youth Theater have responded that they are investigating each claim, working with authorities, and will change their policies going forward.

However, victims and others associated with the organization, say that’s not nearly enough.

Last week, several men and women came forward online saying they were sexually abused as children while attending Christian Youth Theater(CYT), a national youth theatre organization based just outside San Diego. Worse yet, some of them stated that CYT management knew about the abuse, yet did nothing.

Some of the allegations span over the past 20 years and some go back further than that. A lawyer representing two of the victims believes there could be dozens of more cases given the number of locations and the fact that the company has been operating for 40 years.

Attorney Jessica Pride represents two women who said when they were students at Christian Youth Theater they were both molested and harassed by their teachers. She told local news,

"There are multiple perpetrators and numerous victims. In one case, the abuse started in 2006 and didn’t end until 2008. In both of these cases, the teachers made comments to them about how they were developing, and how they liked the way they looked in a certain dress or how they’d like them to wear certain panties," Pride said.”

According to reports, over 10 more victims have come forward with their allegations. In addition to sexual misconduct, others are also bringing up allegations of homophobia, racism, and bullying.

In response, leaders at the theatre organization posted this statement:

“We are deeply saddened to learn about the statements that have recently been made on social media involving former CYT students, and we want you to know that we take these allegations very seriously.

We have been working tirelessly on these issues with the authorities, outside consultants, staff, and the board of directors since they were brought to our attention.”

But victims and other former employees say that the statement isn’t nearly enough.

San Diego police told local news that its Sex Crimes Unit is conducting an investigation in which there is an association with CYT.

An advocate for several of the alleged victims is asking for any other possible victims to come forward. Loxie Gant can be reached at Loxie@forbelleconsulting.com or (858) 382-5694.

Will we update this story with new information as it becomes available.