In this research paper, Amos N. Guiora explores the role of enablers—individuals whose actions, whether intentional or unintentional, shield perpetrators of harm from accountability. The paper draws parallels between the Bystander Initiative at the University of Utah S.J. Quinney College of Law and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Letter from Birmingham Jail, highlighting how both expose those who, through inaction or complicity, enable oppression and injustice.
Guiora references the case of Jeremy Bell, a 12-year-old victim of a serial pedophile who was protected by enablers for over three decades. By examining this and other cases, the paper emphasizes the moral and legal responsibility of bystanders and institutions in preventing harm to vulnerable individuals. The author connects this modern accountability effort to Dr. King’s critique of those who, despite professing support for justice, failed to act against systemic racism and violence.
The paper ultimately argues for the creation of stronger mechanisms to hold enablers accountable, aligning with Dr. King’s call to action against passive complicity in the face of injustice.
