Fort Bragg officials work to address domestic violence

Senior leaders at the post say they want to tackle the issue starting at the top.

“Right now, we know that this is a serious (problem) that is hurting our families,” Command Sgt. Maj. Yolanda Tate said. “It’s also hurting the military because every single day, somebody is affected by domestic violence. We as leaders, we have to get out and speak against it to prevent it.”

Capt. Jesse Sommer is an advocate for soldiers who have experienced domestic violence or assault.

“There are younger men who are fending against younger women in our ranks, partially because we haven’t taught them how to recognize the signs of consent and what to do when consent is there or is not there.”

One of the purposes of this is a domestic violence symposium is to make sure commanders are aware of the programs available on post to help their soldiers and their families.