U.S. Coast Guard to Implement Reforms to Address Sexual Assault and Harassment Issues
Introduction
U.S. Coast Guard officials have unveiled plans for reforms after an internal review highlighted an alarming number of sexual assault and harassment cases within the service. The 90-day review, which was released on Wednesday, emphasizes the need to create a safer environment and rebuild trust among its members. The recommendations outlined in the report are based on extensive interviews with Coast Guard personnel, including victims of sexual assault and harassment dating back to the 1960s.
Rebuilding Trust
The internal review specifically addresses the issue of broken trust within the organization. It acknowledges the deep-rooted pain experienced by victims and emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and repairing the trust that has been compromised.
Background
The review was initiated by Adm. Linda Fagan, commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, after the service faced criticism for not disclosing a six-year internal investigation into sexual assault and harassment at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy. This investigation, known as ‘Operation Fouled Anchor,’ uncovered multiple instances of rape, sexual assault, and sexual harassment that occurred at the academy or were perpetrated by academy cadets.
Sen. Chris Murphy, who chairs the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security, expressed dissatisfaction with the review, stating that it fails to hold anyone accountable for past failures, particularly those at the Coast Guard Academy. Similarly, Sen. Richard Blumenthal criticized the lack of accountability measures for past misconduct and cover-ups.
Concrete Steps
The report outlines steps to improve oversight, training, and support for survivors. However, critics argue that these steps need to be followed by concrete actions to effect change. Recent reports by CNN revealed that the Coast Guard also concealed a 2015 report on discrimination, hazing, and sexual assault within the service, indicating that a problematic culture still persists.
The memorandum from Adm. Fagan acknowledges that the actions taken to address improper conduct will not impact cases stemming from Operation Fouled Anchor. However, the service is responding to congressional requests to address those cases through additional inquiries conducted by the Coast Guard Investigative Service. Adm. Fagan’s memo requires tailored training to cultivate a positive workplace climate for personnel at all levels.
Moving Forward
Adm. Fagan has ordered plans to be developed by 2025 for expanded bystander intervention training and comprehensive sexual assault prevention, response, and recovery training for all Coast Guard personnel. Additionally, she has mandated improvements in physical security within the cadet dormitory at the academy.
The U.S. Coast Guard is committed to fostering safer and more empowering workplaces and eradicating harmful behaviors within its ranks. True transformation, however, will require concrete measures and consistent implementation to restore trust and ensure the well-being of all its members.
