“The Invisible War,” a groundbreaking 2012 documentary directed by Kirby Dick and produced by Amy Ziering and Tanner King Barklow, sheds light on the pervasive issue of sexual assault within the United States military. This impactful film, which premiered at the 2012 Sundance Film Festival and earned the U.S. Documentary Audience Award, has since become a catalyst for change in government policies aimed at combating sexual assault in the armed forces.
The Stark Reality:
In 2010, a staggering 108,121 veterans screened positive for military sexual trauma, exposing the alarming prevalence of this issue. Shockingly, the Department of Defense processed reports of 3,198 new assaults that year, with estimates suggesting the actual number could be as high as 19,000. Despite these distressing figures, convictions were secured against only 244 perpetrators, highlighting a systemic failure in addressing this crisis.
Voices Unheard: Veterans Speak Out:
“The Invisible War” gives a voice to survivors, veterans from various branches of the United States Armed Forces, who bravely share their stories. These personal accounts reveal a disturbing pattern – the absence of an impartial justice system, reprisals against survivors, inadequate emotional and physical care, and the advancement of perpetrators’ careers. The film also captures footage, often shot by the survivors themselves, providing a raw and unfiltered look into the ongoing struggles they face post-assault.
Legal Battles and Cultural Failures:
A central narrative in the documentary follows Coast Guard veteran Seaman Kori Cioca’s pursuit of justice through the civil suit Cioca v. Rumsfeld. With the assistance of attorney Susan L. Burke, Cioca and other survivors aim to hold the Department of Defense accountable for its failure to address sexual assault adequately. The film also delves into past scandals, including the Navy Tailhook scandal in 1991, the Army Aberdeen scandal in 1996, and the Air Force Academy scandal in 2003. These incidents collectively paint a damning picture of the military’s consistent failure to fulfill promises to address its alarming rate of sexual assault.
A Call for Change: Advocacy and Awareness:
“The Invisible War” concludes by emphasizing the urgent need for reform in the military’s approach to handling sexual assault cases. Survivors and advocates featured in the film call for a shift in the prosecution process, advocating for measures that distance unit commanders from these cases. The documentary challenges the military’s empty promises and highlights a previously undisclosed culture of sexual harassment and assault at the prestigious Marine Barracks Washington.
In summary, “The Invisible War” serves as a powerful exposé of the hidden epidemic of sexual assault within the US military. Recognized with a Peabody Award and Emmy Awards, this documentary has played a crucial role in influencing government policies and bringing about awareness. By amplifying the voices of survivors and exposing the stark realities of sexual assault, the film urges a reevaluation of existing systems to create a safer and more just environment within the armed forces.
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