Building a Culture of Respect in the Army

Sexual assault and harassment within the military ranks is an issue that demands urgent attention and transformative change. The Army, as a microcosm of society, faces unique challenges in addressing these issues due to its hierarchical structure and diverse cultural makeup. The need for a profound cultural shift is imperative to effectively combat sexual assault and ensure every Soldier is treated with respect and dignity. The thesis of this essay is that fostering a culture of equality, accountability, and open communication is essential to eradicating sexual violence in the military.

By doing so, we can create an environment where every Soldier feels safe, empowered, and valued.

The Root Causes

Sexual assault occurs for several reasons, primarily rooted in unequal treatment and power dynamics. When individuals are not treated equally, it creates an environment where disrespect and exploitation can thrive. One of the guiding principles to prevent such behavior comes from the timeless quote, "Do to others as you would have them do to you" (Luke 6:31). This principle underscores the importance of mutual respect and empathy, values that should transcend cultural differences and unify the Army as a family. By embracing diversity and understanding each other's backgrounds, Soldiers can build stronger bonds that deter misconduct.

The Army's current approach to sexual assault training has made strides in reducing risk, yet there remains room for improvement. The implementation of effective training methods and resources, such as the 24/7 SHARP hotline and comprehensive online materials, are commendable steps. These resources empower Soldiers to report incidents and seek help. Moreover, the introduction of the "if you see something, say something" approach encourages proactive intervention. However, training should go beyond awareness and reporting; it must emphasize prevention by fostering a culture of respect and understanding. This includes continuous education on cultural sensitivity and the impact of harassment, ensuring that Soldiers are not just aware but also empathetic and supportive of one another.

Voices and Building Trust

A significant barrier to reporting and addressing sexual misconduct is the fear of speaking up, particularly among lower enlisted Soldiers who may feel intimidated by higher-ranking individuals. This fear can prevent individuals from addressing issues that compromise the integrity and safety of the unit. Respect for rank and hierarchy is essential for military discipline, but it should not instill fear that silences voices. A climate of trust and accountability is crucial in preventing all forms of wrongdoing, including sexual assault. Leaders must actively encourage open dialogue and demonstrate that every voice matters. When a private observes a staff sergeant engaging in inappropriate behavior, they should feel confident and supported in bringing it to light. Trust and accountability must be the foundation upon which the Army builds its operations and interactions.

Eliminating Sexual Violence

Ending sexual violence in the military is challenging but achievable through concerted efforts. Every member of the Army must commit to treating one another with compassion, respect, and dignity. This commitment involves recognizing the importance of support networks and holding everyone to high standards. Leaders play a pivotal role in setting these standards, acting as role models for behavior and accountability. The saying, "A chain is only as strong as its weakest link" (Vladimir Lenin), aptly describes the collective responsibility required to combat sexual violence. By strengthening each link through education, support, and accountability, the Army can eliminate the conditions that allow sexual assault to occur.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Army must embrace a cultural transformation to effectively combat sexual assault and harassment. This transformation requires a unified approach that emphasizes equality, accountability, and open communication. By fostering an environment where every Soldier feels respected, valued, and empowered, the Army can create a safer and more inclusive space for all. Together, as a cohesive family, Soldiers can support one another and ensure that the Army's culture evolves to meet the challenges of a changing world. To stand together, we must first help each other to our feet, using respect and dignity as the foundation for a stronger, more resilient Army.

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