In a powerful episode of S.O.S., we hear from Jean Payne, a Navy veteran and survivor of Military Sexual Trauma (MST). Jean's story is one of resilience, advocacy, and the fight for justice. She has turned her painful experiences into a mission to help others and to push for legislative change to protect military personnel from sexual abuse.
Meet our Guest: Jean Payne
Jean was born in the United States to immigrant parents but spent her childhood in Colombia. After returning to the U.S. due to political instability, she faced numerous challenges, including moving between homes and adjusting to a new culture. Despite these hardships, she joined the Navy, seeking a path to a better future.
However, her military experience was marred by trauma. Jean faced sexual abuse from the moment she enlisted, enduring over four years of harassment and assault. She describes MST as a spectrum of unwelcome sexual experiences, from harassment to assault, often perpetrated by those in positions of authority. This abuse left her feeling powerless and betrayed by the very system meant to protect her.
The Impact of Trauma
Jean's experiences in the military had lasting effects on her mental health. For over 20 years, she struggled with depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts, feeling ashamed and alone. She often felt that speaking out would only lead to further ostracization, a sentiment echoed by many survivors of MST.
Despite her success in the corporate world, Jean carried the weight of her trauma in silence. It wasn't until she hit rock bottom in 2014 that she began to seek help and reclaim her life. This turning point led her to confront her past and take control of her healing journey.
Reclaiming Worth and Advocacy
Jean emphasizes the importance of reclaiming one's worth. She realized that healing required her to take responsibility for her own well-being. This meant seeking therapy, engaging in self-care practices like yoga, and surrounding herself with supportive people. She learned to recognize her emotions and understand their origins, which was crucial in her healing process.
In her memoir, "Reclaim Your Worth: A Story of Abuse, Empowerment, and Building a Life on My Terms," Jean shares her journey and the lessons she learned along the way. She also authored a children's book, "Jean and the Magnificent Mirror," aimed at inspiring self-worth and confidence in young readers.
Legislative Change: VA House Bill 2520
In 2025, Jean took her advocacy to the Virginia Legislature, championing VA House Bill 2520. This bill aims to establish an independent Sexual Offense Prevention and Response Program within the Virginia Department of Military Affairs. Jean's vision is to see similar protections enacted in every state, ensuring that victims of MST have access to independent support and resources.
Jean's efforts highlight the need for accountability and transparency in addressing sexual abuse within the military. She believes that creating independent offices for reporting and support can help break the cycle of silence and empower survivors to come forward.
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Jean Payne's story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of advocacy. By sharing her experiences, she not only raises awareness about Military Sexual Trauma but also inspires others to reclaim their worth and fight for justice. Her journey reminds us that healing is possible and that we can transform our pain into purpose.
For more information about Jean and her work, visit her website and check out her books. Together, we can support the fight against military sexual abuse and advocate for change.
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