The Seattle Times headline “Seattle Archdiocese must hand over sex abuse records, WA court rules” (March 3, Local News) was music to my ears. As a clergy abuse survivor from age 7 and a lifelong activist, I know how important releasing the files can be.

Our stories are our lives and our truth. They are the light that shines in the darkness of secret, locked Church files. I have worked with many advocates and volunteers for this day when our stories are freed to provide needed information for hundreds of survivors to receive long-awaited justice and recompense for horrendous crimes committed against them.

Gov. Bob Ferguson said this ruling is a win for transparency. I add it’s a win for all of us. Our children are safer. Survivors’ stories are honored. Denied justice is possible. Survivors can see the light of day. And maybe, just maybe, the Catholic Church will see the light of day also.

Mary Dispenza, Bellevue