Childhood USA Launches the 2025 Out of the Shadows Index in New York City

America is failing to protect its children. That was the stark message at the Childhood USA launch of the 2025 U.S. Out of the Shadows Index, held this month at Polsinelli Law in New York City. The report, researched by Economist Impact, reveals that 45 states and the District of Columbia fall short in preventing and responding to child sexual abuse and exploitation.

The event, moderated by ABC News’ Byron Pitts, gathered survivors, lawmakers, and advocates who shared powerful testimonies and urgent calls for systemic reform. Among the featured speakers were actor and survivor Anthony Edwards of @zeroabuseproj, Florida Senator and advocate Lauren Book of @laurenskidsfoundation, Aaron Stone, survivor and founder of @18wintersllc, and Dr. Mary Pulido, a leading voice in child protection.

Each speaker underscored a shared demand — turn data into action. The Index provides critical insights into the gaps across U.S. states, but the stories shared at the event highlighted the human cost behind every statistic. Survivors reminded attendees that behind every data point is a child who deserved safety and justice.

Childhood USA, founded by Her Majesty Queen Silvia of Sweden, continues its mission to end child sexual abuse and exploitation through research, advocacy, and survivor-led initiatives. This year’s Index and launch event serve as a call for accountability and collective responsibility across sectors — government, law, and community.

As the evening concluded, the message was clear: numbers inform, but stories ignite change. Childhood USA’s work challenges every state to confront uncomfortable truths and take measurable action to protect children nationwide.