This is really interesting, Linus, and I personally want to thank you publically for posting this info.
As most everyone here knows, I work in a VA medical facility and have worked in the DoD/VA system for nearly 15 years now. I am also a Veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps. I can personally attest to the fact that, in my years working in the VA health care system, almost every other female Veteran I've had the honor to care for was sexually harassed or assaulted while serving on active duty. The numbers are appalling, really.
I never was assaulted but I certainly was harassed, simply because I was female-born. Who did this?? Guys I worked with...guys I worked FOR...guys who were hanging off barracks balconies with their friends as I walked by. You know, when you encounter deplorable behavior like that, you really have to wonder about the sort of culture that gives men the (perceived) license to carry on that sort of thing.
So, "boys will be boys"?? Ya, I guess that was the excuse, but there's something seriously wrong with that, too. That's like excusing law-breaking by turning your head and saying criminals will be criminals, too. Is it inherent behavior?? I think not. They do it because the culture encourages, then dismisses and excuses it. That's what really needs to be stopped.
Theo....at work
