The Urgent Need for Government Accountability in Protecting Military and Child Sexual Assault Survivors

Sexual assault survivors in the military, on university campuses, and during their childhood face a harsh and often unforgiving reality: the very systems that are designed to protect them frequently fail to provide the necessary support and justice. This deeply troubling phenomenon has been documented extensively, revealing a pattern of neglect and institutional inadequacy that leaves survivors feeling abandoned and voiceless. For years, these brave individuals have stepped forward to share their harrowing experiences, detailing the trauma they endured and the pervasive lack of support from government institutions and other entities that are supposed to safeguard their rights and well-being.

Military personnel, for instance, often find themselves in an environment where the chain of command can create significant barriers to reporting incidents of sexual assault. Many survivors have reported feeling pressured to remain silent due to fears of retaliation, skepticism regarding the sincerity of investigations, or concern that coming forward could jeopardize their careers and reputations. This culture of silence is compounded by a lack of adequate resources and support systems within the military, which can leave survivors isolated and without the necessary tools to heal from their experiences.

Similarly, on university campuses, the prevalence of sexual assault has reached alarming levels. Many survivors have bravely recounted their stories, highlighting the inadequate responses from campus administrations and law enforcement. The processes for reporting assaults often seem convoluted and unwelcoming, leading to feelings of frustration and hopelessness among those seeking justice. Victims may face additional trauma through the very processes meant to protect them, as they navigate a system that can sometimes prioritize institutional reputation over the well-being of the survivors.

In the context of childhood, the implications of sexual assault are equally devastating. Survivors from this demographic often grapple with long-lasting psychological effects that can impede their development and quality of life. Unfortunately, the systems that should protect children—such as schools and child welfare agencies—frequently fall short. Many young victims are left feeling unheard and unsupported, as they may not have the language or the agency to articulate their experiences. The stigma surrounding sexual assault can further silence these children, leaving them vulnerable and in need of urgent intervention.

Despite the immense courage demonstrated by survivors who come forward to share their stories, many have encountered a disheartening reality: they are often ignored, dismissed, or even punished for their bravery. This systemic failure is not merely a personal tragedy for the individuals involved; it represents a broader societal issue that underscores the urgent need for accountability and reform at the governmental level. The failure to adequately address the needs of survivors not only perpetuates a cycle of trauma but also undermines public trust in institutions that are meant to protect and serve their communities.

To address this systemic problem, it is crucial for governments and institutions to take comprehensive action. This includes implementing robust policies that prioritize the safety and well-being of survivors, ensuring that there are clear, accessible reporting mechanisms, and providing adequate training for personnel who handle these sensitive cases. Furthermore, fostering a culture of support and validation for survivors is essential in creating an environment where individuals feel empowered to come forward without fear of retribution or disbelief. The time for change is now, as the voices of survivors demand to be heard and acknowledged in the pursuit of justice and healing.

The Reality Behind Military Sexual Assault Survivors’ Struggles

Since 2013, voices from survivors of military sexual assault have revealed a disturbing pattern of neglect and abuse. One survivor’s story stands out: after being raped by a fellow service member in San Antonio, Texas, she faced victim blaming, emotional abuse, and retaliation from the very system that should have protected her. Her experience is far from unique.

Many survivors do not enlist expecting to become victims of sexual violence. They join to serve their country, not to endure trauma that leaves lasting scars such as chronic PTSD. Yet, when they report assaults, they often encounter disbelief, shame, and institutional barriers. The military justice system frequently prioritizes protecting its reputation over supporting survivors, leading to underreporting and a culture of silence.

The Impact of Ignoring Survivors

Ignoring survivors has severe consequences:

• Mental health deterioration: PTSD, depression, and anxiety worsen without proper care.

• Career damage: Retaliation and stigma can end military careers prematurely.

• Loss of trust: Survivors lose faith in the military and government institutions.

• Perpetuation of abuse: Without accountability, perpetrators remain free to harm others.

  
  

The government's inaction not only adversely affects individuals but also undermines the integrity of the armed forces and erodes public trust. When a Navy Veteran like Julie Jewels Smoot returns her military service medals to Congress and publishes her journal to highlight the issues to the Senators and Representatives, it signals a significant problem. A rape survivor who has endured the trauma of assault, victim blaming, emotional abuse, and retaliation understands the situation far better than any indifferent member of Congress.

Child Sexual Abuse Survivors Deserve Stronger Protections

Child sexual abuse survivors face lifelong challenges that extend far beyond their childhood years, impacting various facets of their lives in profound and often debilitating ways. The trauma they endure does not simply vanish with the passage of time; instead, it leaves indelible marks on their emotional well-being, shaping their mental health, self-esteem, and overall outlook on life. Survivors frequently grapple with a range of psychological issues, including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and feelings of isolation. These emotional scars can severely hinder their ability to form and maintain healthy relationships, as trust becomes a significant barrier. The betrayal of trust by an authority figure or someone they were meant to rely on can lead to a pervasive sense of distrust that complicates future interactions with others, including friends, family, and even potential partners.

Moreover, the ramifications of such abuse often extend into adulthood, where survivors may find themselves struggling to navigate the complexities of personal and professional relationships. The inability to trust authority figures can manifest in various ways, including difficulties in workplace dynamics, challenges in adhering to societal norms, and a heightened sense of vigilance that can be exhausting. Unfortunately, many survivors find themselves in a system that offers little in the way of support or understanding. Government agencies, which are ostensibly responsible for the protection and welfare of children, often fall short in providing the necessary resources and support that survivors desperately need.

The lack of comprehensive policies and adequate funding for prevention, intervention, and survivor support leaves countless children vulnerable to ongoing abuse and neglect. This systemic failure not only perpetuates the cycle of abuse but also denies survivors the critical resources they require to heal and rebuild their lives. Many survivors encounter significant obstacles when trying to access essential services such as counseling, legal aid, and financial compensation. The journey to recovery can be fraught with bureaucratic hurdles, stigma, and a lack of understanding from those who are supposed to help.

It is imperative that the government prioritizes these pressing needs to break the cycle of abuse and foster an environment where survivors can reclaim their lives. This includes establishing comprehensive support systems that encompass mental health services, legal protections, and financial assistance tailored specifically for survivors of child sexual abuse. By investing in education and awareness programs, the government can also work to prevent abuse before it occurs, ensuring that children are better protected and equipped to seek help if they find themselves in vulnerable situations. Only through a concerted effort to address these critical issues can we hope to create a society that not only acknowledges the pain of survivors but actively works to support their healing and empowerment.

University Survivors Need Safe Campuses and Justice

Sexual assault on university campuses remains a critical issue. Survivors frequently report being ignored or dismissed by campus authorities. Universities sometimes prioritize their reputation over student safety, leading to inadequate investigations and lack of consequences for perpetrators.

Survivors deserve:

• Transparent and fair investigation processes

• Access to counseling and medical services

• Protection from retaliation or harassment

• Clear policies that hold offenders accountable

  
  

Government oversight and funding are essential to ensure universities uphold these standards and create safe learning environments.

Empty military barracks hallway symbolizing isolation and neglect

The Epstein List and Government Accountability

The Epstein List, which exposed powerful individuals involved in sexual abuse, highlights the urgent need for transparency and accountability at all levels of government. Survivors of military sexual assault, child abuse, and university assaults deserve the same level of justice and protection.

Despite repeated calls for reform, many survivors report being dismissed by congressional offices and receiving generic responses that fail to address their needs. This lack of responsiveness suggests a systemic problem where political interests overshadow survivor rights.

What Must Change

To protect survivors and restore trust, the government must:

• Implement survivor-centered policies: Prioritize the needs and voices of survivors in all decisions.

• Increase funding for support services: Provide accessible counseling, legal aid, and financial compensation.

• Hold perpetrators accountable: Ensure thorough investigations and appropriate consequences.

• Train military and university personnel: Educate leaders on trauma-informed responses and survivor support.

• Enhance transparency: Publicly report on sexual assault cases and government actions.

• Engage survivors in policymaking: Include survivors in developing laws and programs that affect them.

  
  

Why Political Will Matters

Both major political parties, despite their public declarations of support for women and their rights, often fall short in translating these promises into meaningful actions. While they may advocate for women's issues during campaigns and in speeches, the reality on the ground frequently reveals a stark contrast. Billions of dollars are diverted to other governmental priorities—such as infrastructure, military spending, or tax cuts—while survivors of violence and abuse continue to languish in a state of uncertainty, waiting for the justice and support that they desperately need and deserve. This persistent governmental inaction sends a powerful and damaging message to survivors: that their struggles and experiences are not valued, and that their needs are secondary to other political agendas.

Survivors of abuse and violence deserve far more than just empty promises and the impersonal nature of standard form letters that often accompany government responses. They deserve to be treated with the utmost respect, to receive adequate protection from further harm, and to be compensated in a manner that truly reflects the severity and lasting impact of their trauma. The psychological, emotional, and physical scars left by such experiences can last a lifetime, influencing every aspect of a survivor’s life, from their mental health to their ability to form relationships and maintain employment. For many individuals who have endured significant trauma, a fair settlement would be around five million dollars. This figure is not arbitrary; it serves as a recognition of the profound and lasting effects of their abuse, acknowledging that the pain and suffering they have experienced cannot be easily quantified or dismissed. It is essential that our political leaders understand the gravity of these issues and take concrete steps to ensure that survivors receive the support and resources they need to heal and rebuild their lives.

Moving Forward Together

Protecting survivors of military sexual assault, child abuse, and university assaults requires a collective effort. Advocates, lawmakers, and citizens must demand accountability and change. Survivors’ stories must be heard and honored, not ignored.

By standing with survivors and pushing for meaningful reforms, we can build a future where no one fears speaking out and every survivor receives the care and justice they deserve.