The murder of military specialist and sexual assault victim Vanessa Guillen has finally cast a spotlight on what has long been the secret shame of the U.S. Military: rampant sexual assault, and ubiquitous cover-ups. Inspired by Vanessa's story, more and more victims are coming forward to speak their truth and reclaim their power. Today's guest, April Joy Brand, speaks out not only on her own behalf, but on behalf of all the military service members who are still being actively silenced, suppressed, ignored, and overlooked. 

Highlight Reel:

1:00 - The ubiquity of sexual assault in the military

4:00 - How the military machine discourages victims from speaking out and seeking justice

9:20 - #IAmVanessaGuillen

11:00 - When bullets are treated better than female service members

13:30 - How to be an advocate for yourself and others

17:00 - Some scary stats

18:00 - Educate before you punish

22:00 - Moving toward compassionate victim interviews

30:00 - When you're a hammer, everything looks like a nail: the problem of police being in charge of victim advocacy

37:30 - How to show victims you have their back

38:00 - Reward people for doing the right thing

38:50 - Self-reflection as a prerequisite for growth

Watch it on video! https://youtu.be/LJ1YXb5zET4