I parked beside a distinctive blue Subaru Outback, its Vermont green license plates unmistakable. Living in a state of constant hyper-vigilance is a symptom of post-traumatic stress disorder, and I am perpetually aware of my surroundings.
I retrieved my yoga mat from the trunk and entered my favorite studio. I unrolled my mat in my usual spot at the back, facing the wall, and began my seated meditation, focusing on my breath to clear my mind as I prepared to transition from a hectic workday into 75 minutes of serenity. A woman next to me, clearly new to the class, kindly interrupted my meditation to ask about the necessary props. I stood to assist her, and we engaged in light conversation. She mentioned she was visiting from Vermont, and I shared that I had once been stationed in the Coast Guard in Burlington back in 2006. That was the extent of our exchange before the class commenced.
After class, as I headed back to my car, the woman approached the Subaru parked beside mine and thanked me again for my help. “So, you were in the Coast Guard on the lake, right?” she inquired. I nodded. “Were you there during the incident?” she continued. I nodded again. “Do you know the Coast Guard rape victim?”
This question is one I’ve encountered far too often; it no longer surprises me. Some say it’s a Vermont thing. A friend of mine, a Vermont native, remarked, “Not much happens here, and your case comes up frequently.” Many in Vermont rallied against the Coast Guard’s response to my assault, demanding justice for me, yet I never received it. Instead, I found immense support from the community, who continue to advocate alongside me to combat sexual violence in the military.
I didn’t know this woman’s name, yet she was aware of the darkest day of my life. I responded, “I was assaulted while serving in the Coast Guard in Burlington. Please don’t refer to me as the Coast Guard Burlington rape victim. I have a name. My name is Elena Carter.
Honoring My Legacy
“Elena” is my first name, honoring my grandmother, a fierce feminist who raised six children in Greece despite the hardships of post-World War II Europe. She worked tirelessly to create a better life for her family, and all her children thrived in their careers and personal lives.
“Carter” is my family name, a name with a legacy shaped by resilience during tumultuous times. My father, a Carter, moved to the United States with little more than hope and determination. Through hard work, he realized his American dream and built a successful business that provided for our family, ensuring I lacked nothing during my privileged upbringing in New York City. My parents instilled in me the importance of using our privileges for good, encouraging us to give back to the community and challenge the structures that perpetuate inequality.
Standing Up for Integrity
As a child, I learned to take pride in my name. One day in seventh grade, I confided in my parents about some conflicts at school. My friends pressured me to distance myself from a classmate they deemed “uncool.” My dad asked, “What does a Carter do?” and in that moment, I understood that to maintain my integrity, I had to stand by my friend and confront the bullies. Through all life’s challenges, including the trauma of my assault, I’ve always had my family’s unwavering support, for which I am incredibly grateful.
Who is Elena Carter?
Now that you know my name, let me share who Elena Carter is: I am a wife to a wonderful husband (love you, Mark) and a proud mom to the most amazing little boy (admittedly, I’m biased). I am also fortunate to have many beautiful friends who enrich my life. I practice yoga, enjoy reading, have a sweet tooth for ice cream, and love to travel. Despite the regular nightmares of my assault, I remain aware of my surroundings, living with the fear that I might encounter the man who sought to reduce me to “the Coast Guard Burlington rape victim.”
I am a person who experienced assault, yet I refuse to let it define me. Don’t label me as a victim or even a survivor; refer to me by my name.
Empowerment Through Advocacy
I am strong, ambitious, and powerful. I endured a violent crime and chose to share my story. I founded the Military Rape Crisis Center, providing a platform for others to voice their experiences. I’ve advocated for legislation aimed at preventing future incidents and supported others in their battles for justice. While we’ve faced setbacks, we’ve also achieved significant victories.
Rape is a traumatic event that happened to me, but it does not encapsulate my identity. The title of “Coast Guard Burlington rape victim” is one imposed upon me by my assailant. In contrast, Elena Carter—mother, wife, activist, yogi, traveler, friend—is the identity I’ve forged through my actions.
Resources for Personal Journeys
For more insights into personal journeys and resources related to fertility and conception, you can visit this link. Additionally, check out this article for comprehensive information on fertility supplements. For a deeper understanding of artificial insemination, refer to this informative source.
Conclusion
In summary, my name is Elena Carter, and I am not defined by the tragedy I endured. I am a multifaceted individual who continues to thrive and advocate for change.
Keyphrase: Coast Guard Burlington rape victim
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