Stay Involved, Stay Aware
Recently, I spoke about “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” (DADT) repeal as part of a panel discussion presented by the Queer Network, a group under the umbrella of the Women’s Information Network (WIN).
Addressing other aspects of diversity in the military were Ryan Callanan and Kim Currey Hall, who work on diversity issues at Booz Allen Hamilton and formerly worked together at the Military Leadership Diversity Coalition. Previously, Kim spent 8 years at RAND and worked on DADT repeal research that was crucial to presenting the case for repeal.
Ryan and Kim discussed their current work on the issue of women in combat, as the U.S. edges closer toward lifting the combat exclusion ban on women’s service. After exploring the legislative history, current state, and next steps of DADT repeal, I was pleasantly surprised by how many detailed inquiries arose from the audience, which had previously admitted relatively little military knowledge. They asked, for example, “How can sexual orientation be included in Military Equal Opportunity channels? What is the nature of the ban on transgender military service?” And, of course, “How can we help?”
As I shared with the group, one of the most important ways to help LGBT service members and their families is to stay involved and stay aware. Though DADT may not be a “sexy” story for major news outlets in the coming years as open service takes effect, issues for LGBT service members will be no less crucial.
We must continue to press for prompt certification of DADT repeal and be ready to address future challenges, like equal spousal benefits and equal opportunity issues. More immediately, we must remain on guard against opponents who haven’t given up the fight against equality.
Visit our Take Action page and learn more about getting involved with SLDN’s work. Thank you for keeping your eye on the prize and – like the attendees at this panel discussion – continuing to ask questions about the future. The fight for full inclusion endures.
06-29-11 By Elizabeth Shirey, SLDN Grassroots/Policy Advocate |
1 Comments
Comments for this entry are closed.Veendam in Afghanistan on June 30, 2011 at 10.22 am
Thank you for reminding people to be aware and to take action. The law underlying DADT may have been repealed by Congress, but DADT is alive and well in the daily lives of Servicemembers who must live it and wear it daily. It also reaches into the lives of Partners and family members. There is a misconception in non-military circles that “DADT is over.” Thanks, Elizabeth, for educating the WIN group.