53°F
weather icon Clear

‘Leading with respect’: Veterans Affairs Department emphasizes nonabusive behavior

Most veterans who avail themselves to medical care at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs know that the organization is committed to embracing a welcoming, diverse and respectful culture that does not tolerate harassing, disruptive or abusive behavior of any kind.

In December 2022, VA Director Denis McDonough wrote an open letter to veterans emphasizing that commitment. But for reasons unknown, this past month the VA has decided to resend the letter to its mailing list, and include a brochure with the heading, “Leading with respect.” The multi-page document has details that are designed to “ensure a harassment-free VA.”

Why the VA has seen fit to reissue the letter along with a brochure is not specified. It could be that there has been an uptick in abusive behavior at the VA in some of its many offices, but that is not stated nor has anything like that been reported in the national media. More likely, the VA just wants to drive home that such behavior will not be tolerated, and is again letting veterans know what is and what is not acceptable.

Examples are given of acceptable behavior including fostering a safe environment, holding oneself accountable, looking out for one another and promoting dignity and civility. In a red and orange box in order to stand out, examples are given that define prohibited behaviors, harassment and sexual assault: Offensive jokes or insults, rude or disrespectful flirting, rumors and gossip, intentionally misgendering, crude gestures, sexist remarks, cat calls, stalking, sexual touching and advances, groping and sexual coercion.

In his letter, McDonough stressed that in the event anyone experiences any harassment or sexual assault at a VA facility, it should be immediately reported. “We will investigate every report and take appropriate action,” he explained. He also noted that, “There is no wrong door for reporting” such negative behavior. “You can report to whomever you feel most comfortable speaking with about harassment or sexual assault.” Some resources that can be considered as designated points of contact include leaders at VA medical centers or clinics, vet centers, veterans’ benefit offices or veterans’ national cemeteries. There is also a toll-free number that can be called: (800) 698-2411.

The VA has also developed an initiative for individuals to commit to ending abusive behavior. It’s called the White Ribbon Pledge, and everyone is invited to take part. Go to va.gov/health/harassment-free. There is also free, on-line training available. For more information, go to veterantraining.va.gov/bystandertraining.

“Together, we will ensure that VA remains a trusted and safe environment for all,” McDonough said.

MOST READ
THE LATEST
Boulder City schools meet with Legislative Counsel Bureau

Today, Boulder City High School, Garrett Junior High School, and Martha P. King Elementary School will be visited by the Nevada Legislative Counsel Bureau (LCB).

Busy season at Garrett

December is a busy month of activities in schools, filled with wonderful winter concerts, the challenge of final exams and assessments, and the energy that just seems to come with the season.

Season of giving at BCHS

If you live in Boulder City, you know the community is very busy during the holidays, especially winter holidays.

Taking a look at diabetes

Did you know that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises people with diabetes to get a flu vaccination to prevent flu and serious flu complications and recommends people with diabetes who have flu infection or suspect flu infection be promptly treated with antiviral treatment.

Building a growth mindset at King

Sometimes as adults we can spend too much time focusing on “wins” and “losses.” This is true in education as well.

Busy fall season at Garrett Junior High

As we wrap up the fall season at Garrett Junior High, there’s so much to celebrate.

Sometimes simple appliance DIY can spare you costly service calls

Wasn’t I embarrassed when I couldn’t figure out why my friend’s dishwasher wouldn’t start. I troubleshot as best as I could, given my limited time visiting her. It was getting power, the door was closed properly, yet when I pressed “start,” it just wouldn’t. I advised her to call a local appliance repair company. $85 later she was informed that it somehow went into its “locked function.” Simply holding down the Heat/Dry button for three seconds unlocks it. That’s all it needed. Boy did I feel dumb. I mean, I’m the Toolbelt Diva, after all.

A look into Día De Los Muertos at BCHS

For nearly a decade, Boulder City High School has created a tradition in their Spanish Honors classes to build ofrendas in honor of the Spanish holiday, Día De Los Muertos also known as Day of the Dead.

Calculating breast cancer risk

Absolute risk versus relative risk and what you need to know about calculating the risk of developing breast cancer. Let’s define both and gauge the risk.