"The Invisible War": failing to protect military personnel from rape

July 2, 2012 |
Valor

Last week a powerful new documentary called “The Invisible War” debuted in theaters. It is showing in select theaters across the country and 5 of them happen to be in California!

 The film paints a startling picture of the extent of the problem-today, a female soldier in combat zones is more likely to be raped by a fellow soldier than killed by enemy fire. The Department of Defense estimates there were a staggering 19,000 violent sex crimes in the military in 2010. The Invisible War exposes the epidemic, breaking open one of the most under-reported stories of our generation, to the nation and the world. (invisiblewarmovie.com)

The film has received a great deal of positive press, as it exposes the ways in which the military perpetuates a culture that not only tolerates sexual violence but promotes it. The movie describes the systematic way in which survivors are marginalized and silenced, regardless of their trauma or their experience. While the movie brings attention to the crisis of sexual assault in the military, it is also bringing attention to people who can create change:

In April, Defense Secretary Leon Panetta saw the film, and two days later he moved the authority to investigate sexual assaults higher in the chain of command, so victims no longer need to report incidents to their commander. (Unfortunately, there’s still no mechanism in place for independent investigation.) The film ends with a call for viewers to continue the conversation, and to demand that Washington take immediate action to change how it handles sex crimes in the ranks. Viewers can sign an online petition, arrange to show the film in their own communities, colleges or military bases, connect via its Facebook community, and explore resources for victims. (From salon.com).

I encourage everyone to see this powerful film and give us your review!