Frontlines: The Latest from OutServe-SLDN

As a result of that appearance, SLDN Executive Director Aubrey Sarvis yesterday sent a letter to the former president office expressing his belief that "it is important that the political and military leadership of our nation have a clear understanding of the terrible burden and inequitable treatment our lesbian, gay and bisexual troops live with because of the ban on open service." Following are excerpts from that letter:

"Over the last several months you have been asked by reporters and others about the passage and implementation of 'Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.' You have stated the law was not implemented as you understood at the time it would be. I gather from your comments that when 'Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell' became law you intended for the Department of Defense’s implementing regulations to protect service members’ private lives. Unfortunately, 'Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’s' implementing regulations are by in large consistent with the statutory language of the law itself and effectively prohibits service members from engaging in any actions seen as homosexual conduct. This includes simply telling others that you are lesbian, gay or bisexual."

Sarvis concludes his letter by writing, "'Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,' in its inception, application, and practice has placed an unjust and unnecessary burden on lesbian, gay and bisexual troops. This law and the implementing regulations forces good troops to choose between service to their country and a life of personal integrity. I write this letter most respectfully to share with you the harsh realities, record, and consequences of this law over the past fifteen years. I would welcome the opportunity to sit down with you soon to share this record in greater detail. In the interim, let us focus our attention on the important work ahead -- repealing 'Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.' We welcome the opportunity to work with you to get that done."

-Victor Maldonado