Independent Lens Season 14 Episode 15 The Invisible War

The Independent Lens season 14 episode 15 titled "The Invisible War" is a powerful documentary that sheds light on the epidemic of sexual assault within the United States military. The film is directed by Kirby Dick and produced by Amy Ziering, and premiered at the 2012 Sundance Film Festival where it won the Audience Award.

The film begins by examining the experiences of several women who joined the military with the hopes of serving their country and building a career. However, they soon found themselves victims of sexual assaults at the hands of fellow service members. These women recount the horrific experiences they endured, and the lack of justice and support they received when they reported their assaults to their superiors.

The documentary goes beyond just telling the women's stories - it delves into the systemic issues within the military that have allowed sexual assault to become so prevalent. Through interviews with experts, military officials, and survivors, the film reveals how a culture of silence and impunity has allowed perpetrators to continue to assault their fellow service members without consequence.

The film also explores the devastating impact that sexual assault has on survivors, both psychologically and physically. Many of the women interviewed in the film suffer from PTSD, depression, and other serious mental health issues as a result of their assaults. The film also highlights the challenges these women face when it comes to receiving adequate medical care and support from the military.

Despite the staggering statistics and heartbreaking stories featured in the film, "The Invisible War" also highlights the bravery and resilience of survivors who are fighting to bring about change. Through grassroots activism, legal action, and public awareness campaigns, these women are working to make the military a safer place for all service members.

Overall, "The Invisible War" is a powerful and important documentary that sheds light on an issue that has been kept in the shadows for far too long. It serves as a call to action for policymakers, military leaders, and all Americans to stand up against sexual assault in the military and work towards creating a culture of respect and safety for all service members.