Emma O’Brien, women veterans program manager at the Minneapolis VA Medical Center, chats with Dr. Jill Bowman Peterson in the current women’s veterans clinic in Minneapolis on Sept. 24.Ben Hovland | MPR News A note to readers: This story contains discussion of sexual trauma. Resources and helplines can be found at the bottom of the article.
As a teenager living in rural North Dakota, Kristy Janigo wanted to chase adventure. So, during her senior year of high school, she went to Fargo’s Military Entrance Processing Station, raised her right hand, and committed to the U.S. Army National Guard.
She finished high school and a summer college program, and then packed her bags to start basic training at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri.
She served from 2001 to 2006 as a water treatment specialist, reaching the rank of sergeant. She is proud to be a third generation army veteran. Support Local News
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Janigo is now the veterans’ engagement coordinator for Hennepin County and a Maple Grove city council member.
She also receives mental health services at the Minneapolis Veterans Affairs Medical Center.
“I did experience pretty regular sexual harassment in the military community while I was a service member,” Janigo said. “I do think it has had an impact on my mental health in the long run.” Kristy Janigo and other 92W water treatment specialists stand in front of a 3000 gallons per hour reverse osmosis water purification unit.Courtesy of Kristy Janigo One in three women veterans tell their VA health care provider they experienced military sexual trauma, the term used to describe experiences of sexual harassment or sexual assault that occur during military service.Some women also report feeling uncomfortable and unwelcome when seeking health care through the VA medical system. A 2022 survey found that 13 percent of women veterans said they experienced harassment at Veterans Affairs health care facilities .Officials at the Minneapolis VA are working to change this. In September, dozens of women veterans and advocates gathered […]
Breaking ground for better care: Minneapolis VA strives to create safer space for women veterans