Frontlines: The Latest from OutServe-SLDN

Brotherly Love for SLDN

This year's Philly Pride festival was the largest in 10 years and it showed. The crowds came in droves and all were more than happy to put their name on the line for the repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell". For the better part of a 7 hour day, we were met with overwhelming support.

Many would express their disgust with the policy. Some even began to describe personal stories of family members impacted. There were also a surprising number of active duty members who proudly signed. Veterans for Peace made an appearance and, after signing, shook the hands of all involved. One Veteran spoke of his pride for our efforts and described his own 30 year career as a Navy physician living under a much harsher policy. Even a young ROTC member walked up to me and asked how he could become involved in the fight. I handed him a pad and an hour later he returned with every sheet signed. As a flight mechanic with the Coast Guard discharged under the policy after 10 years of service, I was touched by the vast support from the City of Brotherly Love.

I also have to salute all the volunteers who gave their time for such a great cause, especially a prior coworker of mine who is a straight, active duty ally experiencing Pride for the first time. He was blown away by the reality of the gay community and already offered his services for future endeavors. He is a model servicemember that all others questioning their stance in this fight should take notice of. I have been to many Unity events with SLDN and met many wonderful people. However, this is by far the most amazing experience I've ever encountered. I look forward to many other opportunities with SLDN.

06-24-09 By David Keener |