SMALL FRACTION OF SEXUALLY HARASSED VETS FILE A REPORT, HERE'S WHY
Sexual harassment has been an ongoing issue that seems to never end. In a recent survey of 27,223 individuals, 4,674 respondents said they had witnessed or experienced sexual harassment during their time in the military. Change needs to happen now. If not, these numbers will continue to increase overtime. Many individuals have decided not to move forward with a report because they are worried about causing problems. However, this can lead to the underreporting of sexual harassment complaints. Read on to learn more about how to file a report if you were sexually harassed. Get more information on the VA claim process, and how to get help from those around you.
Sexually Harassed in the Military: A Closer Look
After the incident with Vanessa Guillen in 2020, Army leaders have been wanting to make a culture change that protects the service’s junior troops, but there hasn’t been much of an improvement. Between January 2021 and January 2023, 4,600 Soldiers reported sexual harassment. In some cases, individuals that have gotten sexually harassed don’t report it because they don’t want to start any trouble. This needs to change in order for individuals to feel safe in reporting sexual harassment. The VA delivered a survey to women who were sexually harassed. It was found that the main reason behind women not bringing up sexual harassment is because they were ostracized and re-victimized when they spoke up.
How Can We Change This?
There are plenty of ways we, as a society, can step in and make a difference. The U.S. Army’s Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention Program (SHARP) is a way for individuals to get help when they have experienced anything along the lines of sexual harassment. The Army SHARP program also:
- Permeates the Army’s structure from the Pentagon down to the individual Soldier level.
- Has full-time staff at the brigade level and higher.
- Promotes cultural change across the Army.
Being sexually harassed in the military can be difficult to deal with. However, with the right support, you can overcome it. Some other things to keep in mind is reducing the stigma of reporting, protecting the victim, and increasing training and resources. To read more about the SHARP program click here.
Department of Defense Office Review on Harassment
On April 17, 2024 the Department of Defense Office released a “Review of the Army’s Efforts to Prevent and Respond to Harassment of Soldiers.” The point of this review was to go over the Army’s actions to prevent and respond to harassment of Soldiers and Veterans. This includes sexual harassment, bulling, and hazing. Inspector General Robert P. stated, “Sexual harassment, bullying, and hazing should not be tolerate under any circumstances, our review identified areas in which Army brigade commanders and their teams can improve their efforts to address and respond to harassment more effectively.”
Can I Make a SAPR Report as a Veteran?
The answer is "yes." You can always make a report, regardless of if you are active duty or a Veteran. However, if you file a report as a Veteran, the investigation will be different than if you filed while still active. The Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) Program is an initiative to end sexual assault in the military, encouraging servicemembers to protect each other from unwanted sexual contact. The SAPR program establishes sexual assault training and awareness programs to educate Soldiers. The program helps military leaders understand their role and responsibility in reporting sexual assault allegations. Furthermore, it aims to create a climate that encourages victims to report sexual assaults. Thus, the SAPR program thoroughly investigates sexual assault claims filed and ensures that reporting mechanisms are in place to help all persons. For Veterans filing a claim, you will want to make sure that you have secured all past evidence and have an active support system or an advocate. If you make a report that happened more than five years ago, be sure to have all necessary documentation.
VA Provides Free Care For Vets Who Were Sexually Harassed
Veterans with a service-connected disability for conditions that arose due to military sexual trauma, or being sexually harassed, can apply for compensation through the VA. There are no requirements for length of service or income. A Military Sexual Trauma VA Disability Claim helps Vets obtain monthly, nontaxable pay to help with the financial strain that can come from military sexual trauma. The VA understands that military sexual trauma can cause debilitating conditions in Veterans. There are layers to filing a MST claim. However, it is important to seek help as you navigate the process. To apply for the "Veterans' Compensation for Service-Connected Disabilities," contact the Women Veterans Program Manager or Military Sexual Trauma Coordinator at your local VA facility. Or, you can get in touch with someone at 1-877-222-8387. Reporting that you, or someone you know, has been sexually harassed can be difficult. This is especially true if you want to report it but you are too nervous to. Lastly, call 877-995-5247 from anywhere in the world for 24/7 help with filing a claim.Suggested reads:
