We urge President Obama, Secretary Hagel and the U.S. Congress to do a few simple things, urgently.
First, issue a public apology to those who have been harmed. Second, make an appropriation to allow some redress of the financial hardships that have been shouldered. Third, establish a claims process without delay for eligible veterans who have been raped, sexually assaulted and subjected to other forms of violence. And finally, reform the system of justice for our heroes.
Why is this important?
There is an epidemic of sexual assault in the United States Military. As many as 19,000 soldiers every year are raped, assaulted, harassed and retaliated against for reporting violent crimes. The Department of Defense and the United States Congress must take action immediately to prevent future incidents, and importantly, to fairly compensate victims. We demand a public apology, a claims process for veterans to be fairly compensated for their injuries, and reform.
