SLDN Interviews: Brandon Bodnar & Haley Warden
Editor’s note: Today, SLDN begins a new online series, “SLDN Interviews,” where we will be getting answers to questions from a variety of individuals on the front lines fighting for full LGBT equality in the U.S. military. We begin with Brandon Bodnar and Haley Warden, currently serving as legal interns at SLDN.
Why did you choose SLDN for your internship?
Brandon Says: While serving as an Arabic Linguist in the Air Force, I had the privilege of working beside many fine professionals who dedicated their lives to their country. Being a member of a profession that prides itself on integrity and honor, I never understood why the law forced gay service members to hide a part of who they are. I did not agree with “Don't Ask, Don't Tell” (DADT) when I started my service, and I certainly did not agree with the policy after my friends received DADT discharges. I knew about SLDN through their work on a friend's discharge case. I knew I wanted to give back to those who had helped my brothers- and sisters-in-arms, and I decided to volunteer with SLDN this summer in repayment of their support for our troops.
Haley Says: My partner, a former Air Force Officer, separated from the service after bringing charges against another officer for assault and harassment stemming from her sexual orientation. Her story has made me acutely aware that the obstacles to open service are not limited to DADT and ignited my drive to do what I can to help bring about positive change for LGBT service members. SLDN, as the only organization offering free and direct legal services to LGBT service members, was the obvious choice. I could have a direct impact on the lives of gay service members, while working alongside a dedicated and passionate team of legislative experts and media gurus, in a small but highly respected organization. I’m honored to be here.
What’s been your favorite project so far? And what are you still looking forward to?
Brandon Says: My favorite project is a case not entirely related to DADT. Before starting at SLDN, my classmates asked me what I would be doing this summer since DADT was on the out. I did not have an answer for them then, but I did in my first week at SLDN. My first case was the unfair targeting of a service member because of perceived sexual orientation. Instead of using DADT to investigate this service member, the command disguised the investigation under a neutral administrative process. Whereas there is a lot of oversight right now attempting to prevent the discriminatory use of DADT against service members, there is not nearly as much oversight over other administrative actions. I enjoyed working on this project, because it provides a glimpse into the future hurdles service members might face during open service.
Haley Says: I’ve been working with several clients, including a highly-decorated service member who continues to face DADT discharge proceedings, a Iraq veteran who wants to change discharge paperwork, and a transgender physician who was discharged after almost 20 years in service. But I’ve been particularly interested in my research on benefits for same-sex partners of gay and lesbian service members. Legally married same-sex spouses, not to mention step-children and parents-in-law from a same-sex marriage, are unable to access hundreds of important benefits, from health insurance and housing to travel funds to attend burial ceremonies. I loved working on this project because it will help SLDN fight for the benefits necessary to sustain those who support our troops more than anyone. In addition, it will also help couples identify those benefits that will be available to them post-repeal.
Describe your overall experience working at SLDN so far.
Brandon Says: I love working at SLDN. The people here are very dedicated, open, and smart. People are always willing to help you with a research assignment or with understanding some life problem that other service members may be facing. I have especially liked that SLDN is a legal services organization, providing direct contact with clients and helping them address their pressing issues. It is about providing the best possible outcome for the service member, and not about simply working on “landmark” cases.
Haley Says: I met SLDN staffers David Hall and Ashley Scheideberg at the Equal Justice Works career fair in Washington, DC, last fall. At the time, it seemed that repeal of DADT was just around the corner, and I remember asking if SLDN planned to “see it through” to ensure full equality even after repeal. They said yes, and they’ve proved it! It’s been inspiring to work with such a dedicated group of individuals. And like Brandon, I really appreciate the level of contact we have with clients. My time here has cemented my decision to pursue client-based civil rights work in the future.
What advice would you offer to future non-profit interns?
Brandon Says: Use your people. The permanent staff at your organization has shown a level of commitment to your cause. Learn from their experiences, knowledge, and drive to flatten the learning curve.
Haley Says: Spend some time reflecting on what gets you most excited about your job, and create those opportunities. Small organizations have a lot to do and not enough hands, so if you have an idea, propose it.
07-08-11 By Paul DeMiglio, SLDN Senior Communications Manager |
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