Women Out On The Battle Front

Posted by Victor Dela Casa

When the military opened its doors to women, there was no shortage of volunteers willing to step in and up to support the troops in every available capacity whether it be as military nurses, clerks or cooks. In recent campaigns, women have been increasingly involved in combat situations. The government's decision to repeal the existing ban on front-line duty occupations and recognize women's contributions in all peace keeping and combat efforts is long overdue. It reaffirms the government's commitment to gender-based job equality, employment equity and affirmative action.

While the move is bold, it also addresses safety concerns, not from the enemy but of sexual harassment and assault incidents that often go unreported. Rape and sexual abuse by personnel have plagued the military for years.

Front-line infantry work is very stressful. The hostile work environment and long hours do not make it popular; add to that the risk involved in getting the job done. The military requires that women pass eligibility requirements equal to men but it hasn't addressed how it plans to prevent possible abuses against women in a mixed-gender unit.

Often tight-lipped, only recently did the military take notice. Thanks to the Oscar-nominated documentary, The Invisible War, which chronicles the sexual abuses against women in the military; this led to several arrests that included some of the military's top-ranking officials.

History has taught us that women often fall victim to war-related abuses. Having women on the frontlines is an added bonus for many reasons but won't be successful until the armed forces make some cultural changes and proactive measures to ensure the sexual safety, both physically and mentally, of its female soldiers.

Right now, many women are happy that this opportunity is open to them. But, there are some lingering doubts about whether the opportunity has enough mechanisms in place to protect women from the possibility of sexual abuse and discrimination while performing their duties.

One thing's for sure, regardless of a person's line of work, sexual harassment in any workplace is unacceptable. Victims of harassment, sex discrimination and sexual abuse in Detroit, Michigan should consult with a legal professional who can help to stop injustices and help the victim to be awarded compensation that will cover lost expenses and help to assuage some of the grief that they are likely to experience as a result of the harassment.

(Written by Vee Dela Casa for Miller Cohen PLC, Feb. 4, 2013, for the U.S. law firm published version, click here)

About The Author

Victor Dela Casa is a Filipino-Canadian who spent over a decade working as a business professional in Canada. Worked in IT, finance, marketing, international trade, public service, project management and the maritime industry. Degree in Economics from the University of the Philippines and Honours Diploma from Eastern College. Currently based in the Philippines and working as a professional writer for a multi-national business processes firm.