First Response Action

Ebony opinion article: Stop Telling Women How to Not Get Raped

2012-01-21T15:01:00.005-05:00

A supporter of First Response Action and also a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer passed along this opinion piece from Ebony Magazine, Stop Telling Women How to Not Get Raped: Our Victim Blaming Tactics Do Little to Prevent Sexual Assault. The author, Zerlina Maxwell, makes several poignant remarks.

There are some voices in the conversation about men and boys' involvement in anti-rape campaigns but those voices aren't nearly as loud as the messages that tell women to travel in packs, keep pepper spray in their purses, not to go out at night, to avoid downtown areas (especially alleys) and to stop dressing provocatively. These are all victim blaming messages. The U.S. (and the world) are in need of more men as advocates and messages targeting potential rapists.

Stop Telling Women How to Not Get Raped
Our Victim Blaming Tactics Do Little to Prevent Sexual Assault
Ebony Magazine
January 14, 2012
Zerlina Maxwell

New rule for 2012: No more ad campaigns and public service announcements targeted at women to teach them how to avoid rape. It’s not effective, it’s offensive, and it’s also a lie. Telling women that they can behave in a certain way to avoid rape creates a false sense of security and it isn’t the most effective way to lower the horrible statistics which show that 1 in 5 women will become victims of a completed or attempted rape in their lifetime. The numbers for African American women are even higher at nearly 1 in 4.

We need anti-rape campaigns that target young men and boys. Campaigns that teach them from a young age how to respect women, and ultimately themselves, and to never ever be rapists. In addition, we should implore our men and boys to call out their friends, relatives, and classmates for inappropriate behavior and create systems of accountability amongst them.

There are a number of men who do not understand what constitutes a “rape”, which is a consequence of the “stranger in the alley” falsehood presented in movies and popular culture. You don’t need a mask and a gun to sexually violate a woman. The truth is that rape can happen with a woman you are dating whom you’ve had sex with previously, in a monogamous relationship, and even in marriage. If one party withdraws consent at any time then it’s rape. Consent can be withdrawn by the words “no “or “stop” and in many states, a woman doesn’t have to say no at all. Consumption of alcohol can prevent a woman from being able to legally offer consent. Therefore, it is important for men and women alike to be very clear about their intentions and prioritize consent over the excitement of getting some.

Our community, much like society-at-large, needs a paradigm shift as it relates to our sexual assault prevention efforts. For so long all of our energy has been directed at women, teaching them to be more “ladylike” and to not be “promiscuous” to not drink too much or to not wear a skirt. Newsflash: men don’t decide to become rapists because they spot a woman dressed like a video vixen or because a girl has been sexually assertive.

How about we teach young men when a woman says stop, they stop? How about we teach young men that when a woman has too much to drink that they should not have sex with her, if for no other reason but to protect themselves from being accused of a crime? How about we teach young men that when they see their friends doing something inappropriate to intervene or to stop being friends? The culture that allows men to violate women will continue to flourish so long as there is no great social consequence for men who do so. And while many men punished for sexual assaults each year, countless others are able to commit rape and other crimes against women because we so often blame the victim instead of the guilty party.

Holding women and girls accountable for preventing sexual assault hasn’t worked and so long as men commit the majority of rapes, men need to be at the heart of our tactics for preventing them. Let’s stop teaching ‘how to avoid being a victim’ and instead, attack the culture that creates predators in the first place.

‪Zerlina Maxwell is a political analyst and staff writer for The Loop 21.

Volunteer Opinion Article Says Assault is 'part of the deal' in Peace Corps

2012-01-16T15:13:00.010-05:00

A currently-serving Peace Corps Volunteer states in an opinion piece in the LA Times today that assaults are 'part of the deal' for Peace Corps Volunteers since they are a known risk in Peace Corps. The author says:

"Assaults, sexual and otherwise, are probably more likely to happen to us here in Guatemala than in the U.S. (depending on where in the States we hail from), but that's sort of part of the deal. There is no Peace Corps draft, after all; we sign up and agree to come, fully cognizant of the risks."

What do you think? Do Volunteers sign up to be assaulted? Read the full article below for more information. We welcome your comments.

First Response Action advocates for Peace Corps Volunteers who are survivors of assault and rape, but we also acknowledge that rates of sexual assault is a problem in the United States and is just as likely to happen. It would not be true to say that sexual assault is more likely in another country rather than the U.S. Recent studies show that 1 in 6 women will be victims of rape or attempted rape in their lifetimes.

Other countries may not have a functional system to collect data or they may suffer from vast under-reporting due to police corruption, victims' fear of retribution or a variety of other reasons. Host country nationals in countries where Peace Corps operates are assaulted without signing up for any kind of volunteer program. Americans who have not signed up for a volunteer program are also victims of rape and assault. Sexual violence is an international problem. First Response Action applauds Peace Corps for recognizing violence against Volunteers and making the proactive choice to support Volunteers.

Men and women in Peace Corps can have glaringly different experiences. While some men may be able to move through their communities to accolades of host country nationals or without a second look, many women and some men as well, are followed, stalked, harassed and live with the continual reminder of their gender.

Rape myths are prevalent in the United States as well as countries around the world. It is important for people to be educated on the dynamics of sexual violence so that they do not pass along misinformation or stereotypes. For more information, we recommend visiting the statistics page on RAINN's website.

The Peace Corps kids are all right
Peace Corps volunteers shouldn't be pulled out of Central America
By Jared Metzker
January 16, 2012

My mother, reacting to the recent spate of alarmist headlines about "raging" violence and increased security measures affecting Peace Corps volunteers in Central America, has taken to calling me on a near-nightly basis.

"Just needed to hear your voice," she says to explain the call.

"I'm fine, Mom," I respond.

Frankly, it's getting annoying.

It's not that I don't appreciate the chance to speak with my mother. What bothers me is knowing that she is seriously worried. No matter how much I try to persuade her otherwise, she is convinced my life is in constant danger. Never mind that only one volunteer has been murdered in Guatemala in the 40-plus years the Peace Corps has operated there; as far as she's concerned, it's a war zone. Let me tell you (and her, for the thousandth time!): Guatemala is not Afghanistan. Not even close.

Americans who ride the bus in Guatemala are indeed often targets of pickpockets on the hunt for money, cellphones, cameras and iPods. Volunteers are no exception to this rule, and most of us have been fleeced at least once. It's usually a nonviolent affair, though, and, aside from the hassle of having to fill out Peace Corps reimbursement slips, it's not a big deal.

Officially, however, every such incident is misleadingly categorized as a robbery, a term that by definition implies violence, real or threatened, and that makes the incidents seem much worse than they actually are. Consequently, the media latches on to the upward trend in this scary category of crimes and vaguely connect it to the real but unrelated horrors of the drug cartels — and scare the bejesus out of my mom.

Unfortunately, stoking the false perception of a volunteer population under siege has ramifications beyond my mother's ongoing descent into madness. The Peace Corps director decided last month to take a step back from the programs in Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras. He has evacuated all Peace Corps workers from Honduras and is suspending the induction of new volunteers in Guatemala and El Salvador. From my perspective, based on being here, speaking to other volunteers and reading the Guatemalan press every day, these decisions seem unnecessary, even cowardly.

I am not saying violence against Peace Corps volunteers is unheard of or to be taken lightly. Serious calamities have affected some of my friends here. One of them was on a bus that was in a fatal accident, but he walked away uninjured, thank goodness. Assaults, sexual and otherwise, are probably more likely to happen to us here in Guatemala than in the U.S. (depending on where in the States we hail from), but that's sort of part of the deal. There is no Peace Corps draft, after all; we sign up and agree to come, fully cognizant of the risks. Furthermore, if we decide once we get here that it's more than we'd bargained for, we can leave at any time. Unlike in the case of the military, there is no such thing as a dishonorable discharge from the Peace Corps.

Before the Peace Corps' inception, some Americans wondered whether our "young men and tender young girls, reared in air-conditioned houses," could handle life in a poor country for two years. Fifty years later, with more than 200,000 current and former volunteers, the Peace Corps remains as clear evidence of America's best intentions with regard to foreign policy. Volunteers working in countries such as Guatemala do much to improve the United States' image abroad and often make significant contributions to the development of their host communities. The Peace Corps has proved itself to be a phenomenal idea, and, in contrast to our military endeavors over the last 50 years, its mission has never lacked approval from the American people, liberal and conservative alike.

As the U.S. passes through adverse times, it's important that we not lose sight of the ideals that made us great in the first place. The Peace Corps is a paragon of these ideals, and any decision to scale it back should be taken with full awareness of the damage that doing so would cause. In the case of those of us who are now finishing up our service, much of the work we started will be left unfinished because there will be no one to continue it, but it's more than that. Young Americans, and those young at heart, deserve the opportunity to venture unarmed and un-air-conditioned into developing countries to experience life as it presents itself to the majority of the human population. To deprive them of that opportunity unnecessarily is cowardly, and such cowardice — although perhaps appreciated by their mothers — is inexcusable considering the courage that potential volunteers exhibit just by signing up.

Jared Metzker is a Peace Corps volunteer in Guatemala. He graduated from the University of Oregon in 2009 with a bachelor's degree in political science. He reads the Los Angeles Times every day with breakfast.

Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen Presents Framed Legislation to Survivors

2011-12-08T20:40:00.005-05:00

On December 7, 2011, Congresswoman and Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL) presented framed copies of the 'red-lined' legislation to RPCV survivors who spoke at the May 2011 hearing as well as RPCV survivor and founder of First Response Action Casey Frazee.

Pictured from left to right: Natalie Hirt Adams, lawyer at Wilmer Hale law firm which represents First Response Action; Carol Clark and Jess Smochek, RPCV survivors who testified at the May 2011 House Foreign Affairs Committee hearing; Congresswoman and Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee Ileana Ros-Lehtinen; Casey Frazee, founder and director of First Response Action

President Obama Signs the Kate Puzey Act into Law

2011-12-05T18:27:00.003-05:00

President Obama Signs the Kate Puzey Peace Corps Volunteer Protection Act of 2011 into Law
November 21, 2011
Oval Office of the White House

Pictured:
Left of President Obama: Peace Corps staff Paul Weinberger and Carrie Hessler-Radelet, Senator Johnny Isakson R-GA, First Response Action board member and Legislative Liaison Kate Finn, Peace Corps Director Williams, RPCV survivor Carol Clark who testified at the May 2011 Congressional hearing

Right of President Obama: David Puzey (Kate Puzey's brother), Mr. and Mrs. Puzey (Kate's parents), Rep. Ted Poe R-TX, RPCV and survivor Karestan Koenen, Ph.D. who testified at the May 2011 Congressional hearing

A Long Road!: Karen Moldovan's Board Editorial

2011-11-16T19:05:00.005-05:00

The following blog post is from First Response Action board member Karen Moldovan, who served in the Kingdom of Tonga 2007-09, about her thoughts on the Kate Puzey Peace Corps Volunteer Protection Act legislation passing the House and being sent to President Obama. Karen has supported this campaign as a field advocate through her work at the Colorado Coalition Against Sexual Assault. She serves on Peace Corps' Volunteer Sexual Assault Review Panel which engages experts to address the issue of sexual assault training and response. Karen is an integral member of the board and her expertise, passion and dedication are outstanding.

It goes without saying that the passage of The Kate Puzey Peace Corps Volunteer Protection Act is a momentous occasion. With this legislation, we will truly see a BETTER, STRONGER Peace Corps for all Volunteers. As some people may know, I became involved with this issue in 2007, during my Pre-Service Training as Volunteer in the Kingdom of Tonga. Because I had worked in sexual violence response and prevention prior to joining the Peace Corps, I entered my service with a strong foundation in this work. I therefore realized the huge deficiencies in sexual assault prevention training, education, and formalized response protocol. Although I petitioned both in-country staff as well as Peace Corps Headquarters for improved practice around responding to sexual assault, change and a commitment for reform was virtually non-existent. I left Peace Corps truly feeling that the largest source of my frustration with my service was the inability to create change around this critical issue.
Post Peace-Corps service, I had the opportunity to help build First Response Action with other Returned Peace Corps Volunteers who cared deeply about this issue. Some of us joined as allies, some as survivors. Together, we were able to build a viable campaign for reform. The list of people to thank would be far too long for a blog post. However, I am deeply grateful for everyone who lent their voice to this cause and would like to acknowledge the members of the Colorado delegation, Senator Michael Bennet and Rep. Ed Pelmutter, who co-sponsored this legislation. This Act truly creates a survivor-centered approach to responding to victims of crime. The confidentiality provisions allow a survivor to regain power and control by allowing her or him to decide when and how agency officials know about this very personal crime. It allows survivors to access critical medical and support services while still maintaining confidentiality. The Act provides improved training for staff and volunteers and oversight for staff who do not follow protocol. It also establishes the global presence of Victim Advocates.

Over the past year, I've been honored to work with Peace Corps' newly-formed Volunteer Sexual Assault Review Panel. First Response Action believes it is critical for an outside panel of experts in the field of sexual assault response to have the ability to review and help revise Peace Corps training, education, and policies. I am excited about the work of the Review Panel and am thankful for the agency's leadership and renewed commitment toward addressing this issue. With the passage of the legislation, a Sexual Assault Advisory Council will now be codified into law!

It is an absolute honor that this legislation is named in memory of Kate Puzey. I've often felt that she's another board member of First Response Action. I hope that her spirit is at peace and we are so thankful for all that she did to make the world a better place for women and girls.
Karen

Legacy: Kate Finn's Board Editorial

2011-11-16T18:30:00.005-05:00

The following blog post is from First Response Action board member Kate Finn, who served in Costa Rica, about her thoughts on the Kate Puzey Peace Corps Volunteer Protection Act legislation passing the House and being sent to President Obama. Kate has supported this campaign as the Legislative Liaison collaborating with various legislative allies. She has also bravely told her own story as a survivor and has been instrumental to the forward movement of this campaign.

Wow. CSPAN has never been more interesting! Watching the Congressional votes post on Nov. 1 was an incredible reminder to me of the time and effort that it has taken to create awareness surrounding Volunteers who are victims and survivors of sexual violence during their time of service as Peace Corps Volunteers.

For me, serving on the Board of First Response Action has been a remarkable experience both personally and professionally. After I was raped during my time of service, I really did believe that it was just my country that messed up the response. I knew intuitively that I wasn't the only Volunteer that this had happened to, but I certainly felt alone. I learned about FRA and was immediately released from that sense of isolation. I am humbled to have joined a board that worked so hard to examine the individual experiences of survivors, like myself, and translate those experiences into meaningful policy change. This board has truly connected the experiences of men and women with this legislation, and I know that when enacted, this legislation will have a profound positive impact for Volunteers on the ground.

I think we would be remiss to not mention that we are not the first group of Returned Peace Corps Volunteers to bring up this issue. We know several people, often survivors of crime, that have told their stories since the 1980s to effect change. Carol Clark has been telling her story since the 1980s and I have learned a lot from her perseverance, humility and kindness. She has been pursuing improved services for Volunteers who experience sexual violence for years and we could not have achieved this success without her. We have put in a lot of work, but in many ways I feel that we were able to "tip the scale" only because of the work of so many courageous women before us.

It is impossible for me to not mention Kate Puzey. We know that in her life she was a fierce champion for women and girl's rights. I hope that her legacy lives on in this legislation as more women are able to find peace and well-being after surviving sexual violence.
Kate

A Sense of Hope: Meg Long's Board Editorial

2011-11-16T18:21:00.005-05:00

The following blog post is from First Response Action board member Meg Long, who served in Kenya, about her thoughts on the Kate Puzey Peace Corps Volunteer Protection Act legislation passing the House and being sent to President Obama. Meg has supported this campaign with Volunteer outreach, material creation and survivor support. Meg adds a sense of fairness, peace and justice to the work which has been vital to progress of survivor and whistle blower support.

Even as I write this I am still processing the impact that The Kate Puzey Peace Corps Volunteer Protection Act will have on current and future Peace Corps Volunteers. I first joined FRA because of a manual I wrote to educate members of my community in Kenya about domestic violence and sexual assault. When I began writing this manual I never imagined the end result would be playing a part in ensuring the safety of Volunteers for years to come.
I think of all the people I have met and spoken with since joining FRA over 2 years ago. The amount of collective energy, passion, determination, and dedication is almost too overwhelming to comprehend. But mostly what I think about is my village. I think about all the volunteers who are living in a country most of us could not point to on a map. I think of how isolating and lonely being a Volunteer can be and I think of how terrifying it would have been to been assaulted. Then I think of all the stories I have heard from Peace Corps Volunteers and what they endured even after their assault. For for first time since joining this campaign I am not overcome with anger and a sense of complete injustice when thinking of these stories. For the first time I feel a sense of hope that future Volunteers will not have these same stories. That their stories will include support, compassion, and empathy.

I am so proud of my fellow board members, of the volunteers who provided testimonies, and of all the Congressmen and their staffers who worked tirelessly on this Act. I feel honored that the legislation was worthy of Kate Puzey's name. I feel that a part of her will always have a protective arm around Peace Corps Volunteers.
Meg

Ask President Obama to Host a Signing Ceremony for the Kate Puzey Peace Corps Volunteer Protection Act!

2011-11-07T23:39:00.002-05:00

This important legislation passed both the House and Senate UNANIMOUSLY! That deserves a public signing ceremony! Please contact the White House to ask that President Obama host a public signing ceremony. Ask your friends to call too! A public signing is a great way to show the White House commitment to a stronger, safer Peace Corps for all Volunteers!

http://www.whitehouse.gov/contact
(212) 456-1414 - White House Switchboard

Primary provisions of the bill include:

1. Confidentiality for reporters of crime, both victims and whistleblowers, through a restricted reporting system similar to the U.S. Military.

2. Improved training for Volunteers and staff on the dynamics of sexual assault and response policies.

3. A Sexual Assault Advisory Council to provide recommendations on policies and trainings related to victim response.

4. Establishment of an Office of Victim Advocacy.

5. Oversight for Peace Corps staff who respond poorly to reports of sexual assault.

Gratitude

2011-11-01T21:54:00.004-04:00

It is with sincere gratitude to everyone who has supported the Kate Puzey Peace Corps Volunteer Protection Act legislation that I write this blog as the founder and director of First Response Action. Countless supporters called, wrote and spoke to members of the House and Senate. So many people were involved in this effort to better support victims of sexual violence in Peace Corps, as well as whistle blowers. Thank you to each and every supporter. It's because of YOUR support and action that helped us get this legislation passed!

More than two years ago, I was sexually assaulted as a Peace Corps Volunteer in South Africa. I was confused, alone and often walking numb. There were no resources available to survivors. I am thankful that since First Response Action's inception in 2009, Peace Corps now has a manual for staff to be trained on how to respond to sexual assault, that legislation has been passed to support Volunteers and that Peace Corps has hired a Victim Advocate. The tide is turning for victim support in Peace Corps and that success is thanks to supporters around the world. Advocates, survivors, family, friends, RPCVs, Volunteers, former Peace Corps staff, current Peace Corps staff, members (and their staffers) of the House and Senate, staff at Change.org, the National Peace Corps Association, Dr. Karestan Koenen, the Puzey family and the legal team at WilmerHale have made this dream a reality for me that victims in Peace Corps would have rights, access to services and help navigating the rough terrain of the post-assault landscape.

The work of supporting Peace Corps Volunteer victims of crime has only begun. Once legislation is enacted, it is imperative that we follow-up closely to be sure that victims are receiving the services they need and that all Volunteers are being trained on issues of sexual violence. I hope that supporters will continue to lend their time, talent and voices to this cause.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I am indebted to each and every supporter of victims of crime in Peace Corps.

Casey Frazee
Founder & Director
First Response Action

Kate Puzey Peace Corps Protection Act of 2011 Passes the House!

2011-11-01T21:49:00.005-04:00

Tonight, Congress passed the Kate Puzey Peace Corps Volunteer Protection Act of 2011. The Senate unanimously passed this legislation in September and it will now go onto President Obama to be signed into law. Stay tuned to this blog and our website, www.firstresponseaction.org, for more information about this ground-breaking legislation to support whistleblowers and victims of sexual assault and rape.

Watch the Legislation Discussed Live on CSPAN

2011-11-01T18:02:00.001-04:00

The House speeches prior to the vote is running live at this moment. Visit http://www.c-span.org/Live-Video/C-SPAN/ to watch.

House Vote Scheduled for Tonight at 5:30

2011-11-01T07:18:00.001-04:00

The House is scheduled to vote on the Kate Puzey Peace Corps Volunteer Protection Act of 2011, which was passed by the Senate in September. There has been no confirmation yet if the vote will be televised, but this blog will be updated as we receive new information.

UPDATE: Senate Passed the Resolution

2011-10-27T22:20:00.004-04:00

In a post on 10/16/11 we asked legislation supporters to contact their Senators to ask them to support certain provisions in the Kate Puzey legislation so they would not sunset in seven years, as the bill is currently written. (Read about those provisions here.) We are happy to report that the Senate voted and passed the resolution so that these important provisions will remain and will not end (or 'sunset')!

Thanks to those of you who contacted your Senators!

Peace,
First Response Action

Take Action to Remove Aspects of the Sunset Provision!

2011-10-16T15:34:00.003-04:00

Last month, the Kate Puzey Volunteer Protection Act of 2011 passed the Senate with a ‘sunset’ provision which would require the provisions in the Kate Puzey Act to end in seven years. This is customary and allows for revision of the bill at sunset to ideally improve legislation. The Senate is now trying to pass a resolution, introduced by Senator Isakson, which would amend this sunset provision so that the selected provisions of confidentiality, training requirements and the extension of the Inspector General would not be affected by the sunset. To be clear, the remaining provisions in the bill would sunset, but these provisions would remain. It's important that these key provisions remain standing to continue supporting victims in Peace Corps.

The resolution needs your support to pass! We are asking that you call your Senator(s) TODAY to ask for them to pass this resolution in support of victims and whistle blowers.

House Foreign Affairs Committee Hearing Room
May 2011

Once this resolution is finalized, the bill will go to the House. This is a critical step in the passage of the Kate Puzey Peace Corps Volunteer Protection Act. We appreciate any calls you are able to make! We’ve included a sample script which you can use as a guide if you wish. Please feel free to expand and put the words into your own voice. Your help is greatly appreciated!

Sample script:

“Hello, I’m calling as a (former Peace Corps Volunteer, supporter of the Kate Puzey bill, etc.). I am a constituent in (Senator’s) district and I would like to encourage (Senator) to vote in favor of the resolution to amend the sunset provision in the Kate Puzey Volunteer Protection Act of 2011 so that the provisions of confidentiality, training and the extension of the Inspector General would remain after the bill sunsets. These provisions are vital to the continued support of victims of rape and sexual assault as well as whistle blowers. Thank you for your time.”

Find your Senator(s): Click this link to find your Senator's contact information: http://www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm

Thank you for your support of victims of sexual assault and other crimes in Peace Corps!

Testimony from the Senate Foreign Relations Committee Hearing: Peace Corps, The Next 50 Years

2011-10-06T22:26:00.004-04:00

Today the Senate Foreign Relations Committee held a hearing about the next 50 years of Peace Corps. You can read testimony from panelists here. Panelists included former Senators, Peace Corps Director Williams, National Peace Corps Association Director Kevin Quigley and a survivor.

Senate Passes the Kate Puzey Volunteer Protection Act!

2011-09-29T10:47:00.005-04:00

On Monday, September 26, the Senate passed the Kate Puzey Volunteer Protection Act of 2011 by unanimous consent! You can track the bill here: http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=s112-1280 The next step is to have the bill voted on in the House. If it passes, then the final step is to have the legislation signed into law by President Obama.

First Response Action is grateful for the leadership of Senators Johnny Isakson, R-GA, and Barbara Boxer, D-CA, who introduced this legislation on June 27, 2011. The bipartisan support of these Senators and their staff has been incredible and they have worked tirelessly to get the bill passed. You can read the press releases about the unanimous consent vote for both Isakson and Boxer on their websites.

Thank you to everyone who has called, visited or contacted their representatives to get this important legislation to this level!

This is another big step in the right direction!

Casey and the board of First Response Action

House panel approves bill to boost safety for Peace Corps volunteers after rapes, murder

2011-09-25T23:02:00.000-04:00

By Associated Press, Published: September 21

WASHINGTON — A House panel has approved legislation to improve safety and security for Peace Corps volunteers after criticism that the agency did little to train its workers to deal with violent attacks such as rape and murder.

By voice vote Wednesday, the House Foreign Affairs Committee pushed ahead two bills that would establish a process for volunteers to make confidential reports of rape or sexual assault, set up training for staff on how to respond and create a Victim Support Office.

In May, three Peace Corps volunteers raped while serving overseas and the mother of a fourth who was murdered in Benin complained to lawmakers. They said the agency failed to train its workers about how to avoid or deal with violent attacks. They also said it was insensitive or unhelpful.

Happy 50th Anniversary Peace Corps

2011-09-25T20:52:00.003-04:00

To commemorate the Peace Corps' 50th Anniversary, First Response Action would like to acknowledge the thousands of Volunteers who have served across the globe in a variety of goodwill capacities. Peace Corps Volunteers play key roles in educating their communities about Americans and educating Americans about cultures around the world.

First Response Action is proud to support Peace Corps Volunteers who are victims of crime and the whistle blowers who report crime. We look forward to the next 50 years of a safer, stronger Peace Corps.

Happy Anniversary Peace Corps!

The Board of First Response Action

Legislation Passed Through the House Foreign Affairs Committee Today!

2011-09-21T22:30:00.003-04:00

Another milestone has been reached and successfully passed!

Today, the House Foreign Affairs Committee passed the Kate Puzey Volunteer Protection Act of 2011. Prior to the August recess, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee passed the bill as well, so this important legislation is on the right track! Thanks to those of you who have supported this bill's passage by spreading the word and contacting your representatives.

We'll update this blog with next steps of the legislation. In the meantime, your support is still needed to call your representatives. While the bill has passed the relevant foreign affairs committees, they will still need to pass the larger House and Senate. Visit our partner site, Kate's Voice, to get comprehensive information on contacting your representatives.

Casey and the board of First Response Action

Progress of the Kate Puzey Volunteer Protection Act of 2011

2011-09-19T21:38:00.004-04:00

This Wednesday, the House Foreign Affairs Committee will conduct a 'mark-up' of House Bill 2337, the Kate Puzey Volunteer Protection Act of 2011. You can help support this bill by contacting your local representatives or representatives on the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

Contact Information: Visit the website of our partner, Kate's Voice, for information on whom to contact, Most important people to contact

What to say:

Sample email
Sample phone call

Your support of the Kate Puzey Volunteer Protection Act of 2011 will help ensure that Peace Corps Volunteers who become victims of crime will receive vital services and have rights which are currently not guaranteed for survivors!

If you have questions or would like to share your opinion or story, please contact firstresponseaction@gmail.com

Peace,
Casey

The Washington Post: Crimes against volunteers vex Peace Corps

2011-08-21T15:14:00.005-04:00

By Lisa Rein, published August 20, 2011

A Peace Corps volunteer had been raped in Bolivia and wanted justice. Within hours, Julie De Mello was on an airplane from Washington to meet the victim.

De Mello, employed by the Peace Corps inspector general as a senior federal agent investigating crimes against volunteers, worked with the 23-year-old victim, Erin Bingham, to sketch the attacker. De Mello went with Bingham to a police lineup, hired a lawyer to represent her and worked with local police to track down witnesses.

In May, three Peace Corps volunteers who were raped while serving overseas spoke of their experiences to lawmakers, expressing disappointment with the way they were treated.

De Mello believes her advocacy helped convict the rapist in 2008. He was sentenced to 10 years in prison.

Today, a Peace Corps volunteer who is the victim of a violent crime is likely to get a far less aggressive U.S. government response. De Mello quit three years ago, after the agency grounded her and the four other investigators who routinely traveled abroad to help local police investigate.

The Peace Corps in 2008 moved the responsibility for working with local police from the inspector general’s office to its own in-country security staffers, most of whom have little or no law enforcement training but who are already on the scene in the host countries. After the change, the rate of prosecutions in sex crimes involving volunteers dropped slightly, records show.

New system is defended

Peace Corps officials say the system is working, and spokeswoman Allison Price said it is difficult to draw conclusions from incomplete statistics kept by the agency. She said the decision to move crime response to local security staffs “was made to ensure a proper alignment of functions,” but she declined to elaborate.

“We take the security of all volunteers seriously,” said Edward Hobson, chief of the Peace Corps’ Office of Safety and Security and a former forensic investigator in Orlando. “If a volunteer chooses to pursue legal options after a crime, we stand beside them every step of the way.”

Victims and critics say the change was among many missteps the Peace Corps has made in protecting its 8,655 volunteers and trainees. The humanitarian organization, which this year celebrates its 50th anniversary, has come under fire in recent months for its handling of sexual assaults and the death of a volunteer in West Africa. The young woman, Kate Puzey, was killed days after she told Peace Corps staff that a fellow teacher was molesting students.

In May, Peace Corps Director Aaron S. Williams acknowledged problems and promised changes at a congressional hearing, where lawmakers and crime victims complained that the Peace Corps suffers from a “blame-the-victim” culture.

Rep. Ted Poe (R-Tex.), chief House sponsor of a bill that would force the Peace Corps to give sexual assault victims more support, said in an interview that he did not know the Peace Corps had shifted responsibility for crime investigations to in-country security personnel.

“It would seem to me that in criminal cases, you need trained officers responding rather than people who have other duties,” he said.

Peace Corps staff members operate in each of the 77 developing countries where volunteers are posted. They function separately from the U.S. embassies and include security officers who handle many duties. Often, they have no law enforcement background.

Continued here: http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/crimes-against-volunteers-vex-peace-corps/2011/08/04/gIQALCuaSJ_story.html

National Peace Corps Association is Supportive of Legislation

2011-07-10T12:25:00.005-04:00

The National Peace Corps Association (NPCA) has posted background and information for the Kate Puzey Peace Corps Volunteer Protection Act on their website. This includes their recent action of sending a letter, dated June 29, to House Foreign Affairs Committee Chair Ileana Ros-Lehtinen and raking member Howard Berman expressing their support for this legislation to support Volunteers. The NPCA offers resources on their site for those who want to contact their local representatives, such as a form letter and links to finding one's local representative's contact information in the House and Senate.

First Response Action is grateful for the NPCA's support since the inception of First Response Action in 2009. Together, the RPCV community can help affect positive change for current and future Volunteers who become victims of sexual or physical assault or report crime.

If you're a Returned Volunteer but not a member of the NPCA and would like to, you can visit this link to join now.

Survivor Support Legislation Needs YOUR Help

2011-07-07T16:03:00.006-04:00

For those of you who are passionate about the issue of increased support for Peace Corps Volunteers, your help is needed to make phone calls or meet with your local representatives.

In late June, Congressman Poe (R-TX) and Senator Isakson (R-GA) introduced legislation to Congress and the Senate titled The Kate Puzey Peace Corps Safety and Security Act. This legislation is intended to improve Peace Corps Safety and Security training and Peace Corps’ response to violent crimes.

This is much-needed legislation that would support Volunteers as a long-term solution. Peace Corps has made strides in their approach to issues of sexual and physical assault over the last year, but with the Peace Corps 5-year staff rule, where staff can only serve 5 years, there is need for a sustainable solution to ensure Volunteer victim support. Many other government agencies have similar provisions to support victims of violence.

You can read the text of the House bill here and the text of the Senate bill here. You can visit the bill information by clicking on the following links to view the up-to-date co-sponsors of the bills for the House and Senate.

This is ground-breaking legislation for Peace Corps and would ensure victim and family support. Would you be willing to make a phone call or write an email (or letter) to express your support to your local representatives?

Find your Senator here:

Find your Member of Congress here:

Need help writing a letter? You can use the template letter on our website here.

Need help on what to say? Visit KatesVoice.net's Guide for Contacting Representatives here.

Support is needed from ALL members of the House and Senate and in particular, the members of the House and Senate Foreign Affairs Committees. Here are those remaining members who haven't signed on to co-sponsor yet. If you're in their district, please give them a call!

House Foreign Affairs Committee - Republicans

Chris Smith - New Jersey - (mark.kearney@mail.house.gov)

Donald Manzullo - Illinois -(nien.su@mail.house.gov)

Edward Royce - California - (worku.gachou@mail.house.gov)

Steve Chabot - Ohio - (kevin.fitzpatrick@mail.house.gov) - signed on 7/8/11!

Mike Pence - Indiana - (ryan.jarmula@mail.house.gov)

Connie Mack - Florida - (kristin.jackson@mail.house.gov)

Chairwoman of State/Foreign Operations Subcommittee on the Appropriations Committee (with jurisdiction over PC budget): Kay Granger - Texas - (aaron.ranck@mail.house.gov)

Joe Pitts - Pennsylvania - (ben.stoltzfoos@mail.house.gov)

House Foreign Affairs Committee - Democrats

Gary Ackerman - New York - (howard.diamond@mail.house.gov)

Donald Payne - New Jersey - (algene.sajery@mail.house.gov) - signed on 7/6/11!

Brad Sherman - California - (siamak.kordestani@mail.house.gov)

Eliot Engel - New York - (jason.steinbaum@mail.house.gov)

Gregory Meeks - New York - (sophia.lafargue@mail.house.gov)

Russ Carnahan - Missouri - (rachel.hines@mail.house.gov)

Senate Foreign Relations Committee

Chairman John Kerry - Massachusetts - (202) 224-2742

Ranking Member Dick Lugar - Indiana - (202) 224-4814 (ask for Carl Meacham)

Majority Members

Robert Menendez - New Jersey - 202.224.4744

Benjamin L. Cardin - Maryland - (202) 224-4524 - signed on 7/14/11!

Robert P. Casey Jr - Pennsylvania - (202) 224-6324

Jim Webb - Virginia - (202) 224-4024

Jeanne Shaheen - New Hampshire - (202) 224-2841

Tom Udall - New Mexico - (202) 224-6621

Minority Members

Bob Corker - Tennessee - 202-228-0566

James E. Risch - Idaho - 202-224-2752

Marco Rubio - Florida - 202-224-3041 - signed on 7/14/11!

James M. Inhofe - Oklahoma - (202) 224-4721

Jim DeMint - South Carolina - 202-224-6121

John Barrasso - Wyoming - 202-224-6441 - signed on 7/11/11!

Mike Lee - Utah - 202-224-5444

News about the bill and the issue of sexual and physical violence against Peace Corps Volunteers:

Washington Post Blog by Lisa Rein
Miami Herald article by Halima Abdullah
NYTimes article by Sheryl Gay Stolburg
Dayton Daily article written by Russel Carollo and Hariet Jaspin in 2003:

Men As Advocates

2011-07-02T16:42:00.006-04:00

Often issues of sexual violence are termed 'gender-based violence' or 'women's issues' which shut men out of the conversation. Men can be perpetrators as well as victims of sexual or physical violence. They can play an integral role in advocating for an end to various forms of violence, however, programs often omit the role of men.

As Peace Corps is in the process of rolling out it's new training for staff and Volunteers, which is supposed to include a bystander intervention component, First Response Action thought this was a great time to start the conversation about men's roles in preventing and responding to sexual violence.

The following posting comes from Stuart Moskowitz, a volunteer with the organization Males Advocating Change located in Massachusetts. Stuart is also a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer who served in Ecuador in the 60s. If you are interested in other men's groups advocating for an end to violence and engaging men in the conversation, visit Voice Male Magazine.

Males Advocating Change is an organization committed to promoting healthy non-violent masculinity. We are a committed group of men and women who living and working in the Central Massachusetts community providing leadership and support to end men’s violence against women, children and other men. We are dedicated to enriching and supporting men and boys in the Central Massachusetts community to build healthy relationships, lifestyles and connections with their families and communities. We want to promote greater acceptance of the diversity of men, to support males to attend to their emotional experiences and physical needs. We also want to ally ourselves with other women’s and men’s organizations who are working towards ending gender violence, sexism and racism.

Why is a Males Advocating Change organization necessary?

Men and boys need connection, support and a community of men to:

Address violence against women, children and other men.
Promote wellness activities to address boys and men’s physical, emotional and mental health needs
Reduce the cycle of behavioral and drug addiction that afflict so many men
Advance a more positive view of masculinity that is engaging and inclusive for all men.
Raise awareness to promote a just society and allying with women and women’s organizations to end sexism, racism and homophobia.
Promote and support responsible fatherhood

Addressing just the first goal of violence prevention against women:

Males Advocating Change focuses on how we stereotypically define masculinity in our culture, and examine the possibilities of a broader, more inclusive definition. Not all men are violent or sexist, but whether we are examining murder-suicides, domestic violence, date rape, road rage, school shootings, or other acts of violence, the overwhelming majority of these acts are committed by men. Discussion of several societal influences and examples of both positive and negative media representations of men will open your eyes to the connections between gender roles and violence. Our challenges are how to get men in particular to become more aware and active in promoting healthy models of masculinity, and how to recruit men to promote respect and equality while joining with women to eradicate all forms of violence. We must STOP focusing primarily on the victims of violence to recognize that violence prevention is NOT to be studied only in the Women’s Studies or Gender Studies Departments. We will explore what each of us can do to make a difference in giving boys a range of affirming messages about becoming men, on campus and beyond.

In that vein, we have been airing for the past 9 years the Tough Guise documentary created by Jackson Katz, PhD to our local college community and to other community and religious organizations.

Tough Guise is a 1999 documentary co-created by Dr. Jackson Katz, male sex educator activist. He is internationally recognized for his groundbreaking work in the field of gender violence prevention education. In this documentary, he illustrates the connection between media imaging in the popular culture and how it strongly influences the construction of the male identity. He suggests that men and boys develop a tough guise or mask to project a sense of strength and virility. When men or boys do not conform to this tough guise they are ostracized by their male peers to be weak, a baby or fag.

Jackson Katz suggests that popular media is crucial in reinforcing the idea that violent masculinity has become a cultural norm. In the documentary, he discusses the fact that men are responsible for 90 % of the violence in the society. He gives example how the media sanitizes the message by using generic terms such as kids killing kids not that boys are killing girls and boys as in the school shootings such as at Columbine High School. He states further that the image of what is masculine to become more physical and aggressive with the media showing men being more muscular and violent with bigger and bigger weapons ala Arnold Schwarzenegger in the Terminator and Sylvester Stallone as Rambo. He shows how toy models of Superman, GI Joe and Batman have grown in size over the last thirty years making men look more unrealistic in their body size. He also demonstrates how in the popular culture we have celebrated violence in such sports as football and wrestling.

In the conclusion of the documentary, he depicts some positive changes in the media portrayal of masculinity where men are shown to be more sensitive and nurturing as in such movies as Good Will Hunting and Boyz in the Hood. He makes some recommendations as possible solutions to the this dilemma of this portrayal of men as violent and dominant in their relationships such as men being more vulnerable as a healthier image instead an image of weakness He also encourages women can play a part by rejecting the role of the tough guise that some men might portray.

Men need to speak out and stop being Bystanders to the violence and emotional abuse of women. Hopefully healthy men can be role models to a new generation of boys and girls.

Press Conference: Introducing the Kate Puzey Peace Corps Safety and Security Act

2011-06-22T22:22:00.003-04:00

The press conference to announce the Kate Puzey Peace Corps Safety and Security Act legislation will be on Thursday, June 23 at 2:15 p.m. in the Capitol on the Senate side in the Senate TV/Radio Gallery, room S-325.

The press conference may be televised. Please check back as it gets closer to the press conference as we may have information about which channel.

Legislation to be Introduced: The Kate Puzey Peace Corps Safety and Security Act

2011-06-22T22:04:00.003-04:00

Tomorrow, June 23, Congressman Ted Poe (R-TX) and Senator Isakson (R-GA) will be introducing the Kate Puzey Peace Corps Safety and Security Act. First Response Action supports this legislation as does Kate’s Voice, the organization created by Kate Puzey’s family following her 2009 murder in Benin, West Africa, related to a confidentiality breach. Kate was a strong advocate for women during her lifetime, including forming girls clubs in her village in Benin, so it is apt that this legislation is named in her memory.

Congressman Poe and Senator Isakson and their staff have worked tirelessly to forward the critical points that we know are necessary to provide improved training to Volunteers and Peace Corps staff, and to improve Peace Corps response to victims of crime. Both offices worked closely with Peace Corps as well as Kate's Voice and First Response Action to build legislation that best supports Volunteers. Peace Corps has verbally expressed their support for the legislation and a press release is anticipated following the introduction of the legislation.

Below are the highlights of the bill. We will link to the legislation as soon as it is introduced and available.

Best practices training. The bill installs training that conforms to best practices in the field. The bill requires that Peace Corps work with experts in the fields of sexual assault prevention in order to craft and deliver trainings, both to Volunteers and to Peace Corps staff. By consulting with experts, Peace Corps is able to more effectively deliver a message that encourages reporting and supports survivors. Training can also ensure that Peace Corps staff is ready and able to act after the report of a crime. As RPCVs, the First Response Action board understands the reality of service in the field. Crime cannot always be prevented and risk cannot be eliminated. Implementing a training curriculum that engages bystanders in the efforts to prevent sexual violence while correctly placing the responsibility for the crime solely on the perpetrator is imperative to creating a meaningful response. Relaying important messages about crime and Peace Corps response to Volunteers will help them to adjust to their new reality when they are in their sites. Many Volunteers work with host-country community partners to provide education about sexual assault and gender-based violence and, by installing innovative training for Volunteers, this is one way Peace Corps can be a leader in relaying empowering messages to men and women worldwide.
Victim Advocates. The bill mandates that Peace Corps hire four victim advocates. Three of these victim advocates will be assigned to a specific region. Each advocate will be responsible for coordinating access to services for survivors to critical services such as: safety planning, forensic exams, Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) for HIV exposure, STD screening and information on that specific country’s legal process. Once the survivor returns home, the DC-based advocate will assist them with filing a claim and will continue to assist them for the life of the claim as it moves through the Department of Labor. These advocates are essential to the coordinated and compassionate response that will ensure a survivor’s best opportunity at long term healing. While we recognize that four advocates cannot adequately address the number of Volunteers who report a crime, we do think that this is an important start. The advocates can strongly inform Peace Corps to create survivor-centered policies.
Strong confidentiality provisions. Not only are confidentiality provisions considered a best-practice in the field, they are necessary to ensure that each Volunteer feels safe and supported enough to report their crime. Unfortunately, Kate Puzey could have been protected had such measures been installed, which is why the bill extends to whistle-blower protections as well. Installing these measures will, in time, create a culture that supports reporting and through this bill Peace Corps will have a system that is able to respond appropriately. Additionally, First Response Action is pleased that the legislation includes alternative systems for reporting. Such mechanisms have been instituted by the Department of Defense and have proven to be incredibly effective in providing support services for victims who wish to remain anonymous. Fear of losing confidentiality is often identified as a primary concern of victims of sexual assault.
Sexual Assault Advisory Council. The bill establishes a Sexual Assault Advisory Council, which will play a pivotal role in ensuring that all policies, procedures and training curricula are in alignment with best-practices in the fields of sexual assault prevention and international victims’ response. Once implemented, the Council will assist in establishing a strong victim service program. Once this Advisory Council is enacted, First Response Action board member Karen Moldovan will serve as the First Response Action Representative and the Liaison between First Response Action and the Council.

We are glad to take this opportunity to support Peace Corps response to victims and those who report or experience crime and harassment. As each of these provisions is integrated into the Volunteer experience, we estimate that more reports of crime will be made. In our discussions with Peace Corps, they also realize that improved training and response is likely to increase the number of incidents reported. Volunteers will have access to critical services and be able to feel supported during their time of service. This will be an indicator of a culture that supports and empowers survivors.

First Response Action looks forward to seeing this important bill move forward in the legislative process. If you would like to contact your Representative to forward this bill, please visit the Take Action tab on our site for more information.

Office of the Inspector General Request to Survivors

2011-06-07T20:51:00.003-04:00

First Response Action has received the following request from the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) for Peace Corps. If you are a survivor of sexual or physical violence while serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer, please contact the OIG at OIG@peacecorps.gov to share your experience.

The Peace Corps Office of Inspector General (OIG) is conducting a review of the agency's guidelines and protocols related to its response to the rape and sexual assault of a Volunteer. Individuals who would like to provide the OIG with any information relative to the crime of rape or sexual assault during Volunteer service and the agency's response and support to survivors may contact the OIG by email ( OIG@peacecorps.gov ), or by mail at: Peace Corps, Attn: Inspector General, P.O. Box 57129, Washington DC 20037-7129. All information or complaints will be treated confidentially unless OIG determines during the course of an investigation of criminal, civil, and administrative misconduct that disclosure is unavoidable.

There is no limitation on the terms of service for the OIG's investigation. You could have served anywhere from 1961 to today. Feel free to email First Response Action if you have questions: firstresponseaction@gmail.com.

Casey

Casey Frazee, Founder

First Response Action

Peace Corps Strengthens Relationship with First Response Action

2011-06-04T20:03:00.007-04:00

When First Response Action members met with Peace Corps staff in D.C. on May 9th, they informed us that they have created a Peace Corps’ Volunteer Sexual Assault Panel, currently managed by the Senior Advisor to the newly-created Peace Corps Sexual Assault Working Group.

The purpose of the panel is to...

...obtain the advice of outside experts and returned Peace Corps Volunteers on the design and implementation of Peace Corps’ global sexual assault risk reduction and response strategies.

This panel sounds familiar to a group that First Response Action has been advocating for to oversee the issue of sexual violence in Peace Corps, although the scope of the group's purpose varies slightly.

First Response Action advocates for Peace Corps to have an advisory council that is overseen by Congress which would be comprised of Volunteers who were victimized during their service, Returned Peace Corps Volunteers with expertise in sexual assault services and other experts in the field. It is First Response Action's position that Sexual Assault Advisory Council members should not be paid Peace Corps staff, although the Council will certainly work in collaboration with staff. First Response Action recommends that the Sexual Assault Advisory Council convene quarterly or twice yearly. The Sexual Assault Advisory Council should utilize the experiences and skills of members by reviewing all protocol, policy, training and services related to sexual assault, stalking and intimate partner violence. The Council will also be able to make recommendations based on innovations in the field as well as how previous cases were handled.

We are pleased to announce that Peace Corps has invited a member of First Response Action to join the panel! First Response Action member and Program Manager at the Colorado Coalition Against Sexual Assault, Karen Moldovan, has been appointed by the First Response Action board to serve as our representative. The panel has yet to convene, but First Response Action is thankful for the opportunity to continue working together with Peace Corps for policies and procedures that benefit and support victims of sexual and physical violence.

Karen met with members of the Sexual Assault Working Group, including Kellie Green the new Victim Advocate for Peace Corps, while attending the SANE-SART conference in May in Austin, TX to discuss the partnership. Other Peace Corps staff at the conference included medical services staff member Kim Skrtic and security staff member David Fleisig.

First Response Action is pleased to continue this positive working relationship with Peace Corps towards constructive change!

Becoming Educated About the Issue of Sexual Violence

2011-06-02T16:14:00.008-04:00

Over the last several months, with increasing awareness and particularly media attention to the issue of sexual violence against Peace Corps Volunteers, it has become clear that there is a need for education about this issue for those inside and outside the Peace Corps community.

Today, the Kojo Nnamdi show, a well-respected radio show on the DC NPR affiliate WAMU, interviewed Peace Corps Director Williams about The Peace Corps at 50. Part of the show discussed sexual violence against Volunteers and Jess Smochek, a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer who testified at the May 10th Congressional hearing, spoke about this issue on air. This is clearly an issue where many people are passionate.

There are many opinionated comments left on blogs and websites regarding this issue. One example of the need for education includes the following comment left on the Kojo Nnamdi show website:

"...it's partially the responsibility of the volunteer to educate themselves about the country they are going to serve in. Additionally, if the volunteer is uncomfortable or threatened in their site, it's also their responsibility to bring that to PC's attention in that country. "
- Comment left on the show site for the NPR WAMU Kojo Nnamdi show

As an organization, First Response Action advocates for improved response from Peace Corps in-country and in DC to support Volunteers. This comment is an example of victim blaming and removes Peace Corps' response from the equation. All responsibility is placed on the Volunteer to learn about the country, which in this context, is inferred that learning about the country will keep Volunteers safe. These two items - sexual violence and knowledge of country - do not have a direct connection to deterring sexual violence. Additionally, learning about a country or culture and living in it are two different things.

First Response Action has received numerous testimonies that state that women who reported harassment, feeling uncomfortable or threatened were ignored. Women have said that they repeatedly reported harassment, which can be a precursor to rape or sexual assault, only to have Peace Corps staff in-country tell them that it's 'no big deal' or that they're making too much of an issue or that it's just the culture. Once incidents are reported, the owness then falls to Peace Corps to respond and follow-through in an appropriate way about the reports, keeping the Volunteer's safety in mind at all times. ALL Volunteer reports need to be taken seriously and handled properly so as not to put the Volunteer at further risk while the issue is being managed and investigated.

A caller to the Kojo Nnamdi show whose son served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Ethiopia in the late 90s and in Nepal in the early 2000's called to remark about what she thought about her son's experiences in Peace Corps regarding women and safety:

"I found that the American women volunteers were very naive. They've been brought up in a society where they feel safe, they think they can do anything. I think the Peace Corps needs to train these women to help understand the cultures they're in."

I want to make a point very clear: The problem of sexual assault is NOT based in women's actions. NO victim is to blame for the assaults thrust upon them. There is, however, a problem with female victims consistently being blamed for the harassment, assaults or rapes that they have been forced to endure. The myth is that women are assaulted because they wore culturally inappropriate clothing, they walked at night or they 'asked for it' by being in a big city or by drinking. The truth is that women who are assaulted in Peace Corps have been asleep, jogging, at home, working or spending time with friends. It doesn't matter what a woman is wearing. Uneducated comments purport these myths and stifle women's rights.

Sometimes victims can't say 'no.' If a victim is asleep or incapacitated, they are unable to consent for sexual activity. The absence of 'no' does not equal consent (see chart below). Perpetrators will often use fear to threaten victims into a very coercive and manipulative submission - i.e. by the perpetrator saying "don't say anything or I'll kill you." (First Response Action has received testimony from women who were told variations of this phrase during their attack.) For all victims, the lack of verbal or physical resistance because of force, threat of force or fear does not equal consent. The neurobiological response to trauma is to freeze, so many victims are unable to speak or fight off the person(s) attacking them. For more about this issue, Karen Moldovan at the Colorado Coalition Against Sexual Assault recommends "Yes Means Yes!" Visions of Female Sexual Power and a World Without Rape, edited by Jaclyn Friedman and Jessica Valenti. Within a Peace Corps context, Volunteers serve in countries where multiple languages are spoken and understood. Depending on the situation, the attacker may not speak or understand English, adding to the complexity of sexual violence in Peace Corps.

Provided by the Colorado Coalition Against Sexual Assault

A blog called Can You Relate? posted a cheeky but true post about 'rape prevention tips' that is definitely worth a read. The tips are aimed at the victimizers who drug and rape women. For example, one of the ten tips is "5. When you encounter a woman who is asleep, the safest course of action is to not rape her."

While this may seem shocking to some to write or read, people need to be educated about perpetrators who use this tactic. Perpetrators are looking for weakness or a vulnerability they can exploit to overtake a victim. Many victims know their attacker and attackers often groom victims to gain access. Rape is about power and control. The act of someone raping a woman in her sleep is completely exploitative and clearly a conscious decision on the behalf of the perpetrator. A female Peace Corps Volunteer could be well-traveled, well-integrated and well-informed about issues of sexual violence and be raped in her sleep. The key in the situation is Peace Corps' response.

First Response Action has heard from many women who were asleep when their attacks occurred. Some of these women were blamed or called 'difficult' Volunteers or 'risky' Volunteers. This victim-blaming culture is pervasive in the Peace Corps community and many women who were great Volunteers come back scarred by the response they received from Peace Corps following an assault. One woman who reported being constantly sexually harassed by a member of her host family, and whose reports were consistently rebuffed by in-country staff, was then raped in her sleep by the same member of her host family whom she'd been reporting to Peace Corps. I write about this situation not to shock anyone but to give an example that there is much more education needed on the part of those who think that rape and sexual assault are to be pinned on the victim without giving thought to the perpetrator who willingly overtook their victim to commit such a horrendous act.

Opinionated, victim blaming comments stem from a lack of knowledge as well as the awful rape myths that persist globally, even in American culture. I encourage you to learn more about the issue of sexual violence. Learn about perpetrators. Learn about how victims have been treated following an assault while serving as Peace Corps Volunteers. I also encourage you to start dialogue among friends or even email us at firstresponseaction@gmail.com to share your thoughts and learn a little more. Visit the National Sexual Violence Resource Center at www.nsvrc.org to learn more. Increased education about this issue can lead to improved support for Volunteers who are victims of sexual and physical violence while in Peace Corps.

First Response Action applauds the steps that Peace Corps is taking to rectify the issue of inadequate support and their commitment to changing the culture of victim blaming. We have met with Peace Corps staff on many occasions and they keep us informed about their progress on this important issue. First Response Action is advocating for a safer, stronger, better Peace Corps. None of us are out to damage Peace Corps. We simply want better, sustainable treatment for Volunteers who become victims of crime.

Peace,
Casey
Founder, First Response Action

A Note About the Mission and Commenting from the Editor

2011-05-12T00:14:00.000-04:00

I am incredibly grateful for all of the incredible support that I, other survivors and additional members of First Response Action have received during the life of this organization and especially over the last week through yesterday's hearing. Many people have left well-informed, well-intentioned comments that we greatly appreciate.

Our mission is to improve training, response and oversight within Peace Corps to mitigate issues such as rape and sexual assault which are perpetrated against Volunteers. Rape and sexual assault are not the fault of the victim and we feel very strongly about that at First Response Action. It is realistic that rape and sexual assault will not be able to be completely prevented, but response is something that Peace Corps has the power to improve. This is and has been our mission since our organization's inception.

While some comments are well-informed, others have been hateful. There aren't many, but enough that I feel compelled to note that First Response Action does not appreciate sentiments of hate, misunderstanding of issues and of judgment. We reserve the right to moderate comments. Comments that are hateful or attack members of First Response Action, Peace Corps or survivors will not be approved. This is not the appropriate forum for hate. First Response Action stands for peace and positive change.

Thank you again to those of you who are supportive and have responded compassionately. We have the greatest respect for you and your input!

Here's to a stronger, safer Peace Corps for all Volunteers who serve.

Peace,
Casey
Founder, First Response Action

New York Times: Ex-Peace Corps Volunteers Speak Out on Rape

2011-05-10T23:01:00.005-04:00

By SHERYL GAY STOLBERG

Published: May 10, 2011

WASHINGTON — Jess Smochek arrived in Bangladesh in 2004 as a 23-year-old Peace Corps volunteer with dreams of teaching English and “helping the world.” She left six weeks later a rape victim after being brutalized in an alley by a knife-wielding gang.

Jess Smochek, who was raped in Bangladesh in 2004, advocates for former Peace Corps volunteers who were sexually assaulted.

When she returned to the United States, the reception she received from Peace Corps officials was as devastating, she said, as the rape itself. In Bangladesh, she had been given scant medical care; in Washington, a counselor implied that she was to blame for the attack. For years she kept quiet, feeling “ashamed and embarrassed and guilty.”

Today, Ms. Smochek is among a growing group of former Peace Corps volunteers who are speaking out about their sexual assaults, prompting scrutiny from Congress and a pledge from the agency for reform. In going public, they are exposing an ugly sliver of life in the Peace Corps: the dangers that volunteers face in far-flung corners of the world and the inconsistent — and, some say, callous — treatment they receive when they become crime victims.

“These women are alone in many cases, and they’re in rough parts of the world,” said Representative Ted Poe, Republican of Texas, who says the Peace Corps’ promises do not go far enough and is sponsoring legislation to force changes in the way it treats victims of sexual assault. “We want the United States to rush in and treat them as a victim of crime like they would be treated here at home.”

Founded in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy, the Peace Corps has 8,655 volunteers and trainees, as young as 21 and as old as 86, serving in 77 countries. For most, service is, as the agency’s Web site boasts, “a life-defining leadership experience.”

Returned Peace Corps Volunteer Jess Smochek

But from 2000 to 2009, on average, 22 Peace Corps women each year reported being the victims of rape or attempted rape, the agency says. During that time, more than 1,000 Peace Corps volunteers reported sexual assaults, including 221 rapes or attempted rapes. Because sexual crimes often go unreported, experts say the incidence is likely to be higher, though they and the Peace Corps add that it is difficult to assess whether the volunteers face any greater risk overseas than women in the United States do.

On Wednesday, the House Foreign Affairs Committee will convene a hearing to examine what its chairwoman, Representative Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, Republican of Florida, called “serious crimes” committed against Peace Corps volunteers, including murder; in announcing the hearing, her office cited reports of “gross mismanagement of sexual assault complaints.”

Lois Puzey, whose daughter Kate was murdered in 2009 while posted in Benin, will testify. So will Ms. Smochek, now a board member of First Response Action, a fledgling advocacy group founded by another former volunteer, Casey Frazee. Ms. Frazee was sexually assaulted in South Africa in 2009 and came home, she said, determined to not “let the Peace Corps toss me off like I was an isolated incident.”

In an interview Monday, the director of the Peace Corps, Aaron S. Williams, said he was committed to revamping the agency’s practices to create a more “victim-centered approach.”

He insisted that it was safe for women to serve in the Peace Corps. “We do not place Peace Corps volunteers in unsafe environments,” he said.

But he said the agency must modernize its procedures to “make sure that we provide compassionate care” to crime victims. Already, Mr. Williams has made some changes, including hiring a “victim’s advocate” who began work on Monday and signing an agreement with a nationally known rape crisis group to re-examine his organization’s training and policies.

The changes reflect the work of Ms. Frazee, who has spent the last 18 months tracking down Peace Corps sexual assault survivors by reaching out through social networking sites and her blog. Last year, her work drew the attention of the ABC News program “20/20,” which ran a segment on the women in January. In recent months, Ms. Frazee, 28, has collected more than two dozen affidavits from women, who have shared stories that Mr. Williams called “tragic.”

First Response Action coalition members Meg Long, Kate Finn and Casey Frazee

In interviews and documents, they paint a picture of what many call a “blame the victim” culture at the Peace Corps.

Jessica Gregg, who was drugged and sexually assaulted in 2007 in Mozambique, said a Peace Corps medical officer “made me write in my testimony that I was intoxicated” and suggested that “I willingly had sex with this guy.” She and a number of other women complained that a training video the Peace Corps uses places too much emphasis on the role of alcohol in sexual assaults; in response, Mr. Williams said the video would be replaced.

Many, like Kate Finn, who was raped in Costa Rica and now works in the district attorney’s office in Denver as a victim’s advocate, complain that they are not advised on how to prosecute their attackers; a 2010 survey of Peace Corps volunteers revealed that nearly 40 percent of those raped and 50 percent of those sexually assaulted did not report their attacks. Ms. Finn said that her attacker’s family was on the police force and that she “did not feel safe” reporting what had happened.

Still others say they are given inadequate information about counseling. Karestan Koenen, who sought therapy on her own and is now a psychologist who teaches at Columbia and Harvard, said she was shocked to discover that women today were confronting the same difficulties as she did when she was raped in 1991 in Niger.

“My own experience,” she said, “was that the treatment by the Peace Corps was worse than the rape.”

The women say Mr. Williams’s efforts, while promising, are not enough. They want Congress to pass legislation requiring, among other things, that the Peace Corps develop “sexual assault response teams” to collect forensic evidence and provide emergency health care and advocacy for victims after attacks. Mr. Williams said he was open to such legislation but has not committed to supporting it.

But whether such a bill would pass Congress is unclear. Representative Niki Tsongas, Democrat of Massachusetts, is co-sponsoring Mr. Poe’s bill, but other Democrats are skittish about it. They worry that the legislation, and Wednesday’s hearing, might be used to undermine the Peace Corps — the legacy of a Democratic president — and cut its funding.

The women of First Response Action insist that was never their intention; they say they want to improve the Peace Corps, not destroy it. Ms. Smochek, now 30 and a graduate student, said her primary goal was to alert future volunteers, and in the process perhaps bring some solace to other sexual assault survivors “to let them know they are not alone.”

Harvard Expert Hearing Witness Interviews with ABC about Sexual Violence in Peace Corps

2011-05-09T23:33:00.000-04:00

By ANNA SCHECTER

May 9, 2011

Karestan Koenen, a former Peace Corps volunteer who was raped while serving in the African country of Niger in the 1990s, says the Peace Corps' treatment of her in the aftermath "was like being raped all over again."

"I trusted the Peace Corps, I believed in the Peace Corps. And then [Peace Corps officials] did everything they could to blame me, to not provide adequate care, and even to provide care that was subsequently harmful to me," she told ABC News in a recent interview.

In an ABC News investigation that aired on "20/20," former Peace Corps volunteers alleged that they had been mistreated by the Peace Corps after they were victims of sexual assault while serving overseas. On Wednesday, Congress will convene a hearing about violence against Peace Corps volunteers and what critics call the organization's inadequate response.

Koenen, now an associate professor of trauma psychology at Columbia University and an adjunct at Harvard, had kept the rape a secret for years until she watched the January "20/20" report.

Koenen says she is speaking out to show that this is not a recent problem that is isolated to just a few women. "What's so horrifying to me now is that that nothing has changed," she said. "This has been going on for decades at least. People need to know that this is a chronic problem that the Peace Corps has been unable and unwilling to change," she said.

Koenen grew up in rural New Jersey, and had never heard of Niger until she learned she was accepted into the Peace Corps and assigned to a post there. At the time, Koenen was a 22-year-old graduate of Wellesley College with dreams of pursuing a career as a development economist focused on sub-Saharan Africa. As soon as she received news of her assignment she quit her job at the Federal Reserve Bank and, in June 1991, headed for Niger, then the poorest country in the world.

Koenen and the other volunteers ran into danger almost as soon as they arrived. During the 11-week in-country training session, her bunkmate was raped and two male volunteers were assaulted by a group of local men. Koenen was robbed during the incident, but continued with the program.

Once at her post in southern Niger, she was constantly harassed by local men, but she said she did not fear for her physical safety.

Continued here: http://abcnews.go.com/Blotter/raped-peace-corps-volunteer/story?id=13537674

Change.org Blog by Casey Frazee

2011-05-09T23:23:00.005-04:00

Peace Corps Volunteer Speaks Out About Lacking Sexual Assault Response

I breathed in the fresh ocean air rolling up from the expanse of the Atlantic Ocean while standing on top of Table Mountain in Cape Town, South Africa. I was thousands of feet off the ground, gazing at one of the most marvelous sites in the world. Yet I felt devoid of emotion and feeling, sucked out of me when I was sexually assaulted while serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer in South Africa.

I remember thinking to myself that I was at a candidate for one of the wonders of the world and I didn’t feel anything. I couldn’t even crack a smile. What once came naturally to me now took so much force to muster that it wasn’t worth it most times.

Being sexually assaulted changed who I was forever. That one act of betrayal. That one act of such an intimate violation. I now view the world through the lens of a survivor.

My attacker was part of my host family and he had harassed me for months. After being assaulted in June 2009, I discovered in the most difficult and personal way possible that Peace Corps had no global policy on how to manage incidents of sexual assault and rape. While most Peace Corps victims of assault or rape are kept in the country’s capital while next steps are taken, my Country Director thought it would be more “productive” to send me out to visit Volunteers and help at their sites. Being a generally helpful and agreeable person, and having never been assaulted before, I thought this seemed reasonable. However, it led me down a path of increased PTSD symptoms, isolation, and breakdowns. I was left on my own to devolve in various locations throughout South Africa.

Full article here:
https://news.change.org/stories/peace-corps-volunteer-speaks-out-about-lacking-sexual-assault-response

Hearing Announced: House Foreign Affairs Committee Hearing "Peace Corps at 50" next Wed., May 11

2011-05-05T11:32:00.008-04:00

Wednesday, May 11, 2011

Full Committee

Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Chairman

Peace Corps at 50

You are respectfully requested to attend the following open hearing of the Full Committee to be held in Room 2172 of the Rayburn House Office Building.

Date Wednesday, May 11, 2011

Time 9:30 AM

Location Room 2172 of the Rayburn House Office Building

Witnesses

Panel 1: Problems of Safety and Security
Ms. Jessica Smochek
Former Peace Corps Volunteer

Ms. Carol Clark
Former Peace Corps Volunteer

Karestan Chase Koenen, Ph.D.
Former Peace Corps Volunteer

Ms. Lois Puzey
Parent of Late Peace Corps Volunteer

Ms. Jennifer Wilson Marsh
Hotline and Affiliate Service Director
RAINN

Panel 2: Assessment and Reform
The Honorable Aaron S. Williams
Director
Peace Corps

Panel 3: A View from the Inspector General
Ms. Kathy A. Buller
Inspector General
Peace Corps

---------------------------------------------------------------

Note: The hearing is open to the public and all are welcome to attend. If you can't be there, you can still support by signing the Change.org petition in support of legislation to cement support for survivors.

Change.org Article: Returned Volunteers Group Calls on Peace Corps to Fix Lacking Rape Response

2011-04-28T23:24:00.003-04:00

Returned Volunteers Group Calls on Peace Corps to Fix Lacking Rape Response
by Alex DiBranco · April 28, 2011

Casey Frazee arrived in South Africa in 2009 as an eager young Peace Corps Volunteer, honored to be a part of an organization known for doing good around the world.

But after her sexual assault, Casey discovered a glaring flaw in the organization she idealized: a complete lack of support and victim-blaming response to rape. It was all the more shocking, Casey recalled in an interview with Change.org, because “in my mind I held them to this really high standard.” Within a month of her early return home, Casey founded First Response Action (FRA), a Returned Volunteers group devoted to improving the Peace Corps’ response to sexual violence. And she quickly discovered that her situation was far from an anomaly -- despite what Peace Corps staff insisted.

Survivors hailed from missions all over the world, yet each one shared a similar story of being denied support and questioned about what they did to get themselves raped. Earlier this month, the Congressional Victims Rights' Caucus honored one such Returned Volunteer, Jess Smocheck, for speaking out on 20/20 about being gang-raped in Bangladesh -- after begging the Peace Corps to relocate her. "They all took turns raping me," she told ABC News. "They raped me with their bodies. They raped me with foreign objects." Smocheck says that staff demonstrated greater concern for Peace Corps' image and relationship with Bangledeshi officials than her well-being, covering up the assault and telling her to pretend she was leaving the country to get wisdom teeth pulled.

Click to sign the petition
Tell Peace Corps: Protect Volunteers & Back Anti-Sexual Violence Legislation

"I am so thankful and I'm so appreciative of all the Volunteer survivors who have come forward," Casey told Change.org. It wasn't until these survivors spoke up and captured media attention that the Peace Corps began to take their sexual violence problem seriously. The Peace Corps' own statistics reveal that there were over 1000 reported sexual assaults from 2000-2009, over 200 of which were rapes or attempted rapes.

Peace Corps Director Aaron Williams has since met with FRA and made some changes to the deficient sexual assault response, but Casey remains far from satisfied. “The new training is risk reduction, which is essentially victim-blaming,” she complains.

And there's another major problem: this has all been done at least once before. In the 1980s, with the support of the Reagan administration, Casey told Change.org that another Returned Volunteer survivor fought to change sexual violence policy at the Peace Corps -- but because staff can only serve a maximum five years, as the people involved in the improvements left, the situation regressed. "It gave her solace that she went through what she went through so other women wouldn't have to ... to find out otherwise is heartbreaking," Casey says.

That’s why FRA has drafted Congressional legislation, with support from House Victims' Rights Caucus Co-Chair Ted Poe, to codify necessary and lasting sexual assault polices at the Peace Corps -- so all their hard work won't go to waste. With a hearing planned on the bill for May 11 (to be officially confirmed next week), where a survivors panel and the mother of a returned volunteer will speak, Casey and the other Returned Volunteers of First Response Action are calling on the Peace Corps to back behind a permanent anti-sexual violence policy. If the testimony of the Peace Corps, which would follow that of the survivors, favors this legislation, Congress will have a much easier road to protecting and aiding Volunteers.

“Peace Corps thinks that they’re doing everything they need to do,” Casey commented on their resistance to legislating improvement. But she and other survivors know they're wrong. If Director Williams, of whom Casey currently has positive things to say, and all those involved with the Peace Corps want effective changes that won't disappear when his five years are up, this proposed bill is vital.

Despite her treatment as a survivor, Casey makes it clear that she still loves and supports the Peace Corps' mission, which is why she cares so much about making the organization a better place for Volunteers. Join Casey and First Response action in calling upon the Peace Corps and your representatives in Congress to get this legislation passed immediately.

Alex DiBranco is a Change.org Editor who has worked for the Nation, Political Research Associates, and the Center for American Progress. She is now based in New York City.

Steps Peace Corps Has Taken to Improve Support to Victims of Crime

2011-04-19T22:51:00.005-04:00

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. First Response Action was founded to support Peace Corps Volunteers who are survivors of sexual and physical assault through advocacy and reform to Peace Corps policies and procedures. This month we would like to acknowledge and celebrate the steps forward that Peace Corps has recently taken to address the critical issues of training, prevention and response in the area of sexual and physical assault.

Commitment

This year, Peace Corps released a document entitled “Commitment to Sexual Assault Victims” which gives a general outline of Peace Corps’ response to victims of sexual assault. This commitment includes seven key areas: compassion, safety, support, legal options, open communication, continuation of service and privacy. While the document is uses broad language and is not specific, this commitment is a step in the right direction. This Commitment is to be included in all Volunteer Handbooks and will be mailed to Invitees as well. Peace Corps states that the Commitment will be widely distributed within Peace Corps so that Volunteers at all stages (Invitees to Trainees to sworn-in Volunteers) know Peace Corps commitment to them. First Response Action celebrates this Commitment. We look forward to working with Peace Corps to ensure that the commitments that they make are enacted in specific services for victims of crime.

Information

Peace Corps is increasing the amount of information that goes public about their safety and support protocols. In February, Peace Corps released a FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) document to provide more information about how they have updated their safety planning and are better equipped to respond to incidents of rape and sexual assault.

Peace Corps improved the Family & Friends section of their website to inform loved ones about Peace Corps’ response to the issue of sexual assault. The site now has several paragraphs dedicated to this issue which outline their response and commitment to training. Having contact information for Peace Corps D.C. that family and friends could contact if their loved one has experienced trauma would further improve this re-vamped section.

Worldwide Staff Training

Peace Corps is in the process of rolling out a revised global training curriculum for in-country staff. Director of Safety and Security Ed Hobson said that once the training is rolled out and the first phase is complete, Peace Corps will continue into the next phase of the program which includes Volunteer training and evaluation. In a recent conference call with Peace Corps safety and security staff, they reported that only one country is left to complete their staff training. Considering we are only in the beginning of the second quarter of 2011, this is a giant step for staff education on sexual violence! We look forward to receiving information from the training evaluations and to hear how Peace Corps staff have adjusted the way they respond to victims of crime.

Sexual Assault Working Group

In the fall of 2010, Peace Corps Director Williams initiated a working group of Peace Corps staff members to address the issue of rape and physical and sexual assault against Volunteers. According to Peace Corps’ fact sheet, the group’s goal is “to analyze current agency protocols and recommend strategies to reduce the incidence of sexual assault and rape, and to strengthen support for victims.” Director Williams has been a great advocate for the issue of sexual assault perpetrated against Peace Corps Volunteers. The creation of this internal committee shows Peace Corps’ commitment to properly addressing this issue. The committee has staff who are Returned Volunteers, staff who have experience in the fields of social work, psychology, crime scene investigation and public health. First Response Action also looks forward to the possibility that Peace Corps may open up this working group to include external experts in the field.

Victim Advocate

Earlier this year, Peace Corps posted a position for a Victim Advocate to be based in D.C. and respond to victims of crime. First Response Action outlined the importance of globally-placed regional Victim Advocates in our meeting with Peace Corps in December 2010. Victim Advocates (VA) are a best practices model where the Volunteer has one main point of contact and the VA manages connections to care and resources for the Volunteer. In a recent conference call with Peace Corps staff, they reported that the Victim Advocate should be joining Peace Corps soon and that there is already quite a long list of to-do’s when this person starts. First Response Action is thrilled to work with the Victim Advocate once they get started and feel comfortable in their position.

The Way Forward

First Response Action is enthused that Peace Corps has taken these steps to improve Volunteer safety. First Response Action acknowledges that not all incidents of rape and sexual assault can be prevented, but all can be responded to appropriately and improvements can be made to training to better educate Volunteers on the issue. These are the critical first steps that are necessary to improve training and response. First Response Action advocates for legislation to be added to the Peace Corps Act so that these changes are cemented in the Peace Corps structure to protect and care for all Volunteers. Volunteers must be trained appropriately, be guaranteed certain rights if they become victims of crime, and receive the appropriate support following incidents of rape and sexual and physical assault.

The University of Michigan's The Michigan Review article on Sexual Assault in Peace Corps

2011-04-11T19:19:00.006-04:00

Peace Corps Under Fire by Eden Stiffman on April 8, 2011 http://www.michiganreview.com/archives/2939

Amid the celebrations of 50 years of international service, the Peace Corps has been in the spotlight for a far less laudatory record.

Following an ABC News “20/20” report in January, in which volunteers who survived rape or sexual assault while serving in the Peace Corps expressed dissatisfaction over the support they received, the agency has been under fire.

The House Foreign Affairs Committee will hold a hearing, likely in May, to examine the Peace Corps’ treatment of volunteers who have been victims of rape or sexual assault while serving abroad.

The issue caught the attention of Representative Ted Poe (R-Texas), founder and co-chair of the bipartisan Victims’ Rights Caucus who, citing the report, first spoke on the House floor about the issue in late January.

In an interview with THE MICHIGAN REVIEW, Poe said he hopes to “find out what has happened to victims of crime, why crimes are committed against them, and what the response has been from our federal government, if any.”

In the last decade, over 1000 female volunteers have been victims of rape or sexual assault, including 221 rapes or attempted rapes, 147 major sexual attacks, and 719 other sexual assaults, according to Peace Corps’ Annual Reports of Volunteer Safety.

Casey Frazee, a graduate of Eastern Michigan University, is one of these assault survivors. In 2009, Frazee was placed in South Africa where she volunteered at an HIV/AIDS clinic. Soon after arriving, she was assaulted by the brother of her host mother, a man who was also dating one of her co-workers at the clinic.

Continued at: http://www.michiganreview.com/archives/2939

*Editor's Note: While campaigning for President of the United States in 1960, John F Kennedy made an early morning stop at the University of Michigan student union where he essentially announced the idea for Peace Corps. More at: http://peacecorps.umich.edu/

ABC News Report: Jess Smochek Honored By Congress: Peace Corps Volunteer Spoke Out About Assaults In '20/20' Investigation

2011-04-09T20:10:00.004-04:00

A Peace Corps volunteer who spoke out on "20/20" about being gang raped while serving in Bangladesh was honored by Congress Wednesday for her work on behalf of victims.

Jess Smochek of Pennsylvania, 29, received the 2011 Suzanne McDaniel Public Awareness Award from the bipartisan Congressional Victims' Rights Caucus at a Capitol Hill ceremony attended by members of Congress and victims advocates. After she was attacked, Smochek helped raise awareness of sexual assaults on Peace Corps volunteers and what she and other advocates consider the Corps' lack of support for victims.

"Thanks to the courage and determination of Jessica Smochek," said Rep. Ted Poe, R.-Texas, co-chair of the Caucus, "the mistreatment of victims of violence and the inadequate response from the Peace Corps has captured the attention of the nation" Rep. Poe, who hosted Wednesday's event along with Caucus co-chair Rep. Jim Costa, D.-California, called Smochek's advocacy on behalf of victims "inspiring" and said that because of her Congress will have hearings next month "to hold the Peace Corps accountable" for the safety of volunteers.

Rep. Matsui (D-CA), Rep. Poe (R-TX), Jess Smochek, Rep. Costa (D-CA)

Smochek told ABC News it was "incredibly humbling" to be recognized by the Victims' Rights Caucus. "They are my heroes, both for the work they've done for so many vulnerable populations and for the work I believe some of them are doing even now to help make sure my story won't have to be retold by future Peace Corps Volunteers."

http://abcnews.go.com/Blotter/peace-corps-rape-victim-jess-smochek-honored-congress/story?id=13308796

Peace Corps Partners with RAINN, Nation’s Largest Anti-Sexual Violence Organization

2011-04-03T11:52:00.001-04:00

WASHINGTON, D.C., March 23, 2011—The Peace Corps and the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN), the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate and share educational resources and training tools on sexual assault prevention and response. Through the partnership, RAINN will provide Peace Corps with expertise on Peace Corps’ sexual assault prevention and response training for Peace Corps volunteers and staff.

“The Peace Corps is committed to providing the best, most compassionate support to volunteers in the field. This agreement allows Peace Corps to access RAINN’s resources to implement a stronger, more comprehensive training model for Peace Corps volunteers serving around the world,” said Peace Corps Director Aaron S. Williams.

RAINN will provide Peace Corps with guidance on the development of an enhanced sexual assault prevention and response program. In return, Peace Corps will share information with RAINN on cross-cultural issues of sexual assault risk reduction and response in other countries. Currently, Peace Corps volunteers serve in 77 countries around the world.

For more information about Peace Corps’ commitment to the victims of sexual assault and rape go to the Safety Section of the agency’s website.

About RAINN: RAINN is the nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization, providing a leadership role in response, support, education and advocacy to prevent sexual violence and improve services to victims. RAINN operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1.800.656.HOPE and the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline at rainn.org, and publicizes the hotlines' free, confidential services; educates the public about sexual violence; and leads national efforts to prevent sexual violence, improve services to victims and ensure that rapists are brought to justice.

Congressional Hearing Postponed

2011-03-29T23:01:00.002-04:00

The Congressional hearing about sexual assault in Peace Cops, which was scheduled for this month, has been postponed due to a need for a hearing about the current crisis in Libya. The House Foreign Affairs Committee is looking at dates and checking schedules of parties who need to be present at the rescheduled hearing. Feel free to check our website, www.firstresponseaction.org, or this blog for updates.

You can also join our mailing list by emailing firstresponseaction@gmail.com with 'Join' in the subject line.

Candlelight Vigil for Kate Puzey on Friday, March 11 in D.C.

2011-03-08T22:59:00.004-05:00

Kate Puzey is a Volunteer who was murdered in Benin in 2009. Her story was highlighted on an episode of 20/20 in January. The Puzey family have started a new website in Kate's memory and they are hosting a vigil this Friday in D.C. to honor her memory and service as a Peace Corps Volunteer.

Here are details from the Kate's Voice website, which the Puzey family started to honor Kate's memory:

March 11th Vigil: “Light A Candle For Kate”

On Friday, March 11th – the 2nd anniversary of Kate Puzey’s death – there will be a vigil to honor Kate and the sacrifices of all other Peace Corps volunteer victims in front of the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C. from 6:30 – 7:30 PM.

They also have a facebook page for Kate's Voice.

The Puzey family is also very sensitive to the experiences of other Volunteers who are victimized, including survivors of physical and sexual assault. They are hoping for a supportive turnout at the vigil this Friday. If you or someone you know is in the D.C. area this Friday, please consider honoring Kate's memory with a visit to the Capitol.

Peace,
Casey

First Response Action Requests Your Stories for Congressional Hearing

2011-02-25T22:09:00.003-05:00

Following the recent episode of 20/20 which featured RPCVs who were sexually assaulted during their service, Congress has decided to explore the issue further and has asked First Response Action to provide additional information from RPCVs about their experiences, prevention and response efforts, and possible policy enhancements. This is for an upcoming hearing, most likely at the end of March.

Pursuant to that request, we, First Response Action, are gathering stories of former volunteers who experienced sexual assault while serving in the Peace Corps. We have model affidavits to help survivors tell their stories, and will share those stories with Congress affording survivors whatever level of anonymity or attribution they choose. We are also interested in the stories of RPCVs advocates and others, including Peace Corps staff (current or former) including former Country Directors, who may have information regarding sexual assault prevention and response policies.

The parameters are very open for this. We are seeking stories from Volunteers who served during any decade, in any region and who have any type of story. Every story helps Congress frame the issue of Peace Corps' response to sexual assault.

If you are interested in sharing your story, or would like further information, please contact Casey Frazee at firstresponseaction@gmail.com.

All inquiries will be considered confidential.

Trouble with Worker's Comp?

2011-02-20T21:57:00.003-05:00

About a week ago, one of our First Response Action members, Jess Smochek, met with Peace Corps officials and one of our Congressional allies. Ed Hobson, Associate Director for Safety and Security at Peace Corps, said he was SHOCKED that survivors are having trouble accessing services through Worker's Comp.

Ed personally agreed to advocate for survivors who are having trouble getting money and support from Worker's Comp.

If you are having trouble with Worker's Comp (or haven't tried for fear of trouble) please contact me at firstresponseaction@gmail.com and I will get you in touch with the right people to help.

Peace Corps promises to cover any service-related injuries for the rest of your life and being assaulted or raped (or otherwise violated) during service counts as a service-related injury and you DESERVE to be covered.

I'm happy to see that Peace Corps is taking a step in the right direction to support survivors.

Casey

First Response Action

Ebony opinion article: Stop Telling Women How to Not Get Raped

Volunteer Opinion Article Says Assault is 'part of the deal' in Peace Corps

Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen Presents Framed Legislation to Survivors

President Obama Signs the Kate Puzey Act into Law

A Long Road!: Karen Moldovan's Board Editorial

Legacy: Kate Finn's Board Editorial

A Sense of Hope: Meg Long's Board Editorial

Ask President Obama to Host a Signing Ceremony for the Kate Puzey Peace Corps Volunteer Protection Act!

Gratitude

Kate Puzey Peace Corps Protection Act of 2011 Passes the House!

Watch the Legislation Discussed Live on CSPAN

House Vote Scheduled for Tonight at 5:30

UPDATE: Senate Passed the Resolution

Take Action to Remove Aspects of the Sunset Provision!

Testimony from the Senate Foreign Relations Committee Hearing: Peace Corps, The Next 50 Years

Senate Passes the Kate Puzey Volunteer Protection Act!

House panel approves bill to boost safety for Peace Corps volunteers after rapes, murder

Happy 50th Anniversary Peace Corps

Legislation Passed Through the House Foreign Affairs Committee Today!

Progress of the Kate Puzey Volunteer Protection Act of 2011

The Washington Post: Crimes against volunteers vex Peace Corps

National Peace Corps Association is Supportive of Legislation

Survivor Support Legislation Needs YOUR Help

Men As Advocates

Press Conference: Introducing the Kate Puzey Peace Corps Safety and Security Act

Legislation to be Introduced: The Kate Puzey Peace Corps Safety and Security Act

Office of the Inspector General Request to Survivors

Peace Corps Strengthens Relationship with First Response Action

Becoming Educated About the Issue of Sexual Violence

A Note About the Mission and Commenting from the Editor

New York Times: Ex-Peace Corps Volunteers Speak Out on Rape

Harvard Expert Hearing Witness Interviews with ABC about Sexual Violence in Peace Corps

Change.org Blog by Casey Frazee

Peace Corps Volunteer Speaks Out About Lacking Sexual Assault Response

Hearing Announced: House Foreign Affairs Committee Hearing "Peace Corps at 50" next Wed., May 11

Full Committee

Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Chairman

Peace Corps at 50

Change.org Article: Returned Volunteers Group Calls on Peace Corps to Fix Lacking Rape Response

Returned Volunteers Group Calls on Peace Corps to Fix Lacking Rape Responseby Alex DiBranco · April 28, 2011

Steps Peace Corps Has Taken to Improve Support to Victims of Crime

The University of Michigan's The Michigan Review article on Sexual Assault in Peace Corps

ABC News Report: Jess Smochek Honored By Congress: Peace Corps Volunteer Spoke Out About Assaults In '20/20' Investigation

Peace Corps Partners with RAINN, Nation’s Largest Anti-Sexual Violence Organization

Congressional Hearing Postponed

Candlelight Vigil for Kate Puzey on Friday, March 11 in D.C.

First Response Action Requests Your Stories for Congressional Hearing

Trouble with Worker's Comp?

Returned Volunteers Group Calls on Peace Corps to Fix Lacking Rape Response
by Alex DiBranco · April 28, 2011