[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 127 (Monday, September 22, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1815]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]

[[Page E1815]]



       THE ARMY'S SENIOR REVIEW PANEL REPORT ON SEXUAL HARASSMENT

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. NANCY L. JOHNSON

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, September 22, 1997

  Mrs. JOHNSON of Connecticut. Mr. Speaker, on September 11 the Army 
announced the results of its largest investigation ever on sexual 
misconduct. Before commenting on report findings and related 
recommendations, I wish to commend the Army on the thorough and candid 
manner in which this survey and report were completed. Now, after a 9-
month investigation, we must focus on action to address the serious 
problems of sexual harassment and sexual discrimination identified by 
this investigation.
  The report confirms that sexual harassment in the Army is not an 
isolated problem. Contrary to earlier beliefs, sexual harassment exists 
throughout the Army regardless of gender, rank, or race. More telling 
is the finding that sexual discrimination is more pervasive than sexual 
harassment. These systemic problems undermine the effectiveness, 
readiness, and recruitment ability of the Army.
  Nothing will change until Army leadership takes responsibility and 
accountability for action. Policies, as outlined in the Army Equal 
Opportunity Program, must be transformed into practice--only leadership 
can make that happen.
  Failure of leadership to treat this issue seriously has led to the 
belief by soldiers that their commanders have little interest in 
enforcing rules against sexual harassment. As a result, victims of 
sexual harassment or discrimination do not file complaints for fear of 
reprisals. This breakdown in leadership trust is detrimental not only 
to the dignity of our soldiers, but also to the military effectiveness 
of the Army.
  In the past, the Army has dealt effectively with problems such as 
drug abuse and racial discrimination. In those cases, leadership was 
key to changing behavior. Similar action is needed now. We need to be 
certain that the military is enforcing its code of conduct and 
disciplining those who violate it. The military code of conduct is 
based on honor, respect, and loyalty to country and comrades. When this 
code is broken by allowing sexual harassment of colleagues, it 
undermines our trust and respect for the U.S. military.
  The report confirm the findings of the congressional investigations 
into sexual misconduct led by chairman of the House National Security 
Committee Subcommittee on Military Personnel, Steve Buyer and 
Representatives Tillie Fowler and Jane Harman. I agree with their 
recent statement that there are no quick fixes for this very complex 
issue, and that the Army's leadership must commit to long-term 
corrective actions.
  In closing, I strongly urge the Secretary of the Army to move quickly 
from disclosure to decisive, corrective action.

                          ____________________