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Really powerful experience
I went to an exhibit at the National Veteran's Art Museum today. It was called "Radical Vulnerability," and it was so powerful. A veteran of the Iraq war walked us through the exhibit, and we got to hear his thoughts and experiences. I learned some interesting but disturbing facts.
- One third of service women are sexually assaulted by fellow service people.
- The rate of suicide among veterans is currently higher than the rates of soldier death in any ongoing conflicts.
- Unemployment rates for veterans are among the highest compared with other demographics--up to 30% for women and minorities.
After the program was over, I talked to the guy. I had noticed he had a paper clip tattoo on the outside of his right hand, and I asked him about it. It's a symbol of a movement called People Against People Ever Re-enlisting Civilian Life is Perfect.
Anyhow, I just wanted to share. You can see a few examples of the artwork on this website: https://www.nvam.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=361:current-exhibit-radical-vulnerablilty&catid=107:current-exhibits&Itemid=92
Re: Really powerful experience
I wish more people knew this. I guess growing up military for most of my life (and my dad's job had the highest suicide rate and discharge rate in the service in the 90s) and having my brother serve in Iraq and many friends also I know this stuff happens.
I'm glad it moved you, and sitting here just reading a few of the stories moved me.
I wish more companies would hire Vets. So many companies have a quota to fill and once it's met, they don't give them another look. A few of H's friends want to get out with no job lined up and he's warned them time and time again that it's a huge mistake.
We made the joint decision that H would get out when he did and I still regret it. Now we're paying down debt because we could barely pay the bills. Sucks.