Frontlines: The Latest from OutServe-SLDN

In Her Own Words II

Four years ago, because of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell," I became just another statistic. Two to three servicemembers are discharged each day for no reason other than being who they are, and I was one of them. I have spoken to many people over the years about my experience, and the reaction is always the same....outrage and disbelief that this really does happen in America today. While it is reassuring to receive the heartfelt hugs, and to hear that I was wronged, it wasn't quite enough. I yearned to speak out in a way that could potentially inspire others to evoke real change. This summer I have had the opportunity to join others with the same goal, and to contribute to making that change. By joining the Legacy of Service Tour, it has been my honor to speak alongside a panel of veteran servicemembers, like Eric Alva, Antonio Agnone, Jarrod Chlapowski and Alex Nicholson. During the most recent stop in Concord, New Hampshire, we spoke before a crowd of true changemakers, including: Sylvia Larsen, New Hampshire Senate President; New Hampshire Senate Policy Director, Jennifer Frizzell; Delana Jones, Political Director of the New Hampshire Democratic Party; New Hampshire State Representatives Gail Morrison and Mo Baxley; NH House candidate, Harold Janeway; and representatives from each of the major Democratic presidential campaigns. The United States military continues to miss it's recruiting goal month after month. The shortage of qualified candidates for enlistment has forced the military to actively recruit convicted felons. People who have been a burden on society are now being called on to protect it. The argument for keeping the DADT policy in place is that an openly gay soldier would decrease troop morale and be detrimental to unit cohesion and combat readiness. As a soldier first, it affects my morale to know that a known gang member can serve alongside other service members. As a woman, it affects my morale to know that a convicted rapist can serve alongside female service members. As a parent it affects my morale to know that a convicted child molester can serve and live alongside military families. As Americans, it should affect all of our morale to know that Congress is forcing the U.S. military to choose convicted felons over competent, qualified and capable service members just because of their sexual orientation. End Don't Ask, Don't Tell. -Sonya Contreras

Labels: community events, events, new hampshire

08-22-07