Feedback: July 10, 2026

Dear Editor,

“Why Are Republicans Suddenly for Ibogaine?” [News, July 3] mentions only veterans as suffering from PTSD – estimated to be around 7% of all U.S. veterans. Yet 94% of women who are sexually assaulted experience PTSD symptoms immediately following the assault, and up to 50% have long-term PTSD. Rebecca Solnit said it best: “The former Marine David J. Morris, author of a book on post-traumatic stress disorder, notes that the disorder is far more common and far more rarely addressed among rape survivors than combat veterans. He wrote me, science on the subject is pretty clear: according to the New England Journal of Medicine, rape is about four times more likely to result in diagnosable PTSD than combat. Think about that for a moment – being raped is four times more psychologically disturbing than going off to a war and being shot at and blown up. And because there are currently no enduring cultural narratives that allow women to look upon their survival as somehow heroic or honorable, the potential for enduring damage is even greater.” When we talk about PTSD, we need to include women who have experienced rape or sexual assault.

Elizabeth Gray

Dear Editor,

As we commemorate Independence Day, we reflect on the numerous freedoms that unite us, including the freedom to practice our faith. As an Ahmadi Muslim, I am grateful to live in a country where religious liberty is protected. Sometimes, people assume that being a devoted Muslim conflicts with being a loyal American. However, Islam teaches us otherwise.

The Holy Quran says, “O ye who believe, obey Allah and obey the Prophet and obey those in authority from among you” (4:60). Also, the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) taught us, “Love of one’s country of residence is part of faith.” On this Fourth of July, these teachings remind us that our faith and loyalty go hand in hand.

Danya Mohammad

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