The Silence of Congress on Military Sexual Assault Survivors: Why Accountability is Overdue

One would expect that those elected to represent us would listen to survivors of military sexual assault. After all, these are the people entrusted with protecting the rights and well-being of service members who risk their lives for this country. Yet, the reality is far from this expectation. Survivors of military sexual assault often find their voices ignored, their stories dismissed, and their pain overlooked by those in power. This silence from Congress is not just disappointing—it is a betrayal.

The Unheard Voices of Survivors

Survivors of military sexual assault have bravely stepped forward to share their harrowing experiences through various mediums, including books, documentaries, and personal testimonies. These narratives serve not only as a form of catharsis for the survivors but also as crucial educational tools for the public and policymakers alike. Notable works such as The Invisible War and Justice Denied shine a harsh light on the systemic issues and the often-insurmountable barriers faced by victims within the military justice system. These documentaries reveal the pervasive culture of silence and complicity that allows such assaults to occur and go unpunished, emphasizing the urgent need for reform.

In addition to these impactful documentaries, literary works such as The Boulders in My Life that Shaped My Journey and The Journey Back to Myself: A Book of Healing Poetry provide deeply personal insights into the emotional and psychological toll of these assaults. These books delve into the complexities of trauma, recovery, and resilience, offering readers a glimpse into the inner lives of survivors. They articulate the struggles of navigating a world that often seems indifferent to their pain, while also celebrating the strength it takes to reclaim one’s narrative and seek healing. The authors, through their poignant words, invite readers to empathize with their journeys, fostering a deeper understanding of the long-lasting effects of military sexual trauma.

Despite this wealth of information and the courageous voices of survivors, many members of Congress remain alarmingly indifferent. This apathy is evident in their failure to engage with the rich tapestry of survivor accounts, whether by reading these impactful books, watching the revealing documentaries, or participating in dialogues with those who have lived through these experiences. This lack of attention sends a clear and disheartening message: survivors are not a priority. The systemic neglect of their stories perpetuates a cycle of silence and shame, further isolating those who have already endured unimaginable hardships. It is imperative for lawmakers to confront this uncomfortable reality and recognize their responsibility to advocate for the rights and needs of survivors, ensuring that their voices are not only heard but also valued in the ongoing quest for justice and reform within the military system.

The Reality Behind the Silence

The silence surrounding cases of military sexual assault is not a result of ignorance or a lack of evidence; rather, it stems from a systemic failure to acknowledge and act upon the overwhelming proof that survivors have courageously presented. Numerous individuals who have endured such heinous acts have come forward, armed with clear and documented evidence of the abuse they suffered. This evidence is often compelling, including detailed testimonies, medical records, and in some instances, even written confessions from the perpetrators themselves. Yet, despite this wealth of information, investigations frequently stall, and justice remains elusive. Survivors are left grappling with the painful reality that their voices are often silenced, and their experiences minimized. Agencies like the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) have, at times, failed to take appropriate action, leaving survivors feeling not only abandoned but also betrayed by the very institutions that are supposed to protect them.

One particularly harrowing survivor’s story epitomizes this tragic failure of the system: after receiving an email confession from her assailant, she expected that the authorities would take swift and decisive action. Instead, she was met with silence and inaction. The perpetrator, instead of facing consequences for his actions, was inexplicably shielded from accountability, even being promoted within the ranks, which allowed him to continue perpetrating harm against others. Meanwhile, the survivor was forced to endure not only the trauma of the assault but also the emotional abuse that followed, including victim blaming and feelings of profound shame. This experience is not unique; many survivors find themselves in similar situations where their pain is compounded by the lack of support from their own military community.

In a powerful act of defiance and to reclaim her voice, this survivor chose to return her military service medals and ribbons to Congress, symbolically rejecting the honors that had become tainted by her experience. She even brought her remaining Navy belongings to a Senator's office, seeking acknowledgment and support for her plight. Tragically, her efforts were met with indifference, as the Senator failed to extend even the basic courtesy of a meeting. This lack of recognition and respect for her ordeal is utterly unacceptable! No individual should have to endure such violations, and no one enlists in the military with the expectation of being victimized, blamed, shamed, or retaliated against for reporting a crime. Survivors of military sexual assault deserve far better treatment from the United States Government and the Department of Defense. They deserve to be heard, validated, and supported, not only by their peers but also by the highest levels of leadership, including the President of the United States. It is imperative that systemic changes be made to ensure that those who serve our country are protected and that justice is served for all survivors.

Why Congress Fails to Act

Several factors contribute to Congress’s failure to address military sexual assault effectively:

• Political Priorities: Military sexual assault often takes a backseat to other political issues deemed more urgent or popular.

• Institutional Protection: There is a tendency to protect the military’s image rather than confront uncomfortable truths.

• Lack of Survivor Representation: Few survivors hold positions of influence in Congress, limiting firsthand advocacy.

• Complexity of Military Justice: The military justice system operates differently from civilian courts, complicating reform efforts.

  
  

These factors create a system where survivors are left without a voice, and perpetrators face little accountability.

Military memorial with empty benches symbolizing silence and neglect

.

What Survivors Deserve

Survivors of military sexual assault deserve more than silence and neglect. They deserve:

• Financial Compensation: Millions of dollars to acknowledge the harm done and support their recovery.

• Access to Therapy: The ability to see a therapist of their choice, fully funded by the government.

• Justice and Accountability: Transparent investigations and consequences for perpetrators.

• Supportive Policies: Changes in military culture and policies to prevent future assaults and protect survivors.

  
  

It is unacceptable that billions of dollars are sent abroad or allocated elsewhere while survivors struggle without adequate care or recognition.

The Betrayal of Military Family

Many survivors describe their fellow service members as family, a sentiment that speaks to the deep connections forged in the heat of shared experiences, intense training, and the challenges faced during deployment. This bond, often likened to a sibling relationship, is supposed to provide strength, camaraderie, and protection in times of need. Service members are trained to rely on one another, to trust in each other's abilities, and to have each other's backs in both combat situations and daily life. However, the reality for many survivors is starkly different. Instead of finding the support and understanding they desperately need, they frequently encounter victim blaming, emotional abuse, and abandonment by those they once considered their closest allies. This betrayal comes as a profound shock, intensifying feelings of isolation and helplessness. Survivors often find themselves grappling with not only the initial trauma of their experiences but also the painful realization that those they trusted most have turned against them or failed to offer the support they expected. Such a betrayal deepens the trauma, making it even more challenging for survivors to heal and reintegrate into a community that once felt like home.

The military should be a place of honor, courage, integrity, and safety, where individuals can serve their country with pride, knowing that they are protected and valued. When it fails to uphold these principles and protect its own members, it not only undermines the morale and trust within its ranks but also fails the very people who dedicate their lives to serve. The consequences of this failure ripple through the lives of survivors, affecting their mental health, relationships, and overall well-being. It is crucial for the military to address these issues head-on, fostering an environment where survivors feel safe to come forward and seek help without fear of retribution or disbelief. Comprehensive support systems, accountability measures, and a culture of respect and understanding must be established to ensure that all service members can truly feel like they belong to a family that supports and uplifts them, rather than one that leaves them vulnerable and alone in their time of need.

Steps Toward Change

Change requires action from Congress and the military leadership:

• Listen to Survivors: Read their stories, watch their documentaries, and engage with their experiences.

• Reform Military Justice: Ensure independent investigations and fair trials for sexual assault cases.

• Increase Funding: Allocate resources for survivor support services, including counseling and legal aid.

• Promote Survivor Advocacy: Encourage survivors to take leadership roles in policy-making and reform efforts.

• Raise Public Awareness: Use media and education to break the stigma and silence around military sexual assault.

  
  

These steps can help create a military environment where survivors are heard, supported, and protected.

The Cost of Silence

Ignoring survivors of military sexual assault has real consequences:

• Continued Trauma: Survivors suffer ongoing emotional and psychological harm.

• Loss of Trust: Service members lose faith in the military system and their leaders.

• Perpetuation of Abuse: Without accountability, perpetrators continue to harm others.

• Damage to Military Readiness: A culture of silence undermines morale and effectiveness.

  
  

Congress must recognize that silence is not neutrality—it is complicity.

Survivors of military sexual assault have shown courage by sharing their stories despite the pain and risk. It is time for those in power to show courage as well. Listening to survivors, taking their experiences seriously, and acting decisively are not just moral imperatives—they are necessary steps to restore trust and justice within the military.