When servicewomen report rape, what would you expect their military superiors say?

“The way you were dressed asked for it.”

That’s what former Marine Officer Ariana Klay was told when she reported being raped by a senior officer and his civilian friend.

Klay is one of eight plaintiffs in a high-profile lawsuit against the U.S. Military. The eight women claim they were raped, sexually assaulted, and/or sexually harassed in their capacities in the military.

They also say that when they reported harassment or assault to their higher-ups they were told to “deal with it,” “toughen up,” or that “this happens all the time.” One woman was even discouraged from getting a rape kit done.

The US Military’s response to this lawsuit in stating their zero tolerance for sexual assault. They also state that they are reviewing how senior officers are trained to handle cases of sexual assault.

With the military beginning to allow women to serve in a greater capacity of positions that are closer to the front lines, the discussion of sexual harassment is becoming more vital to the military’s integrity.

Do these allegations surprise you?

How important is it to focus military resources on preventing sexual harassment and assault?