Frontlines, the SLDN Blog
A Question of Justice
A recent story in The New York Times discusses a case before the U.S. Supreme Court that not only sparked a round of hypothetical questions but underscored why the time for repealing “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” as a discriminatory law is now. ...Read More
11-17-08 By Emily B. Hecht and Aaron Tax, SLDN Managing Attorneys | Comment (0)
Everyone Should Have the Right to Serve Country
The "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" law makes no sense, harms individuals, hurts military readiness and undermines the freedom and fairness our country stands for. The time for repeal is now! On this Veterans Day, let's begin to appreciate, respect and honor all of our veterans. ...Read More
11-11-08 Comment (0)
Keeping the Faith
As I reflect upon the contributions of our men and women in uniform this Veterans Day, I think of the 1 million gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender veterans who have served. And I also think of those dedicated, experienced, battle-hardened warriors who are thrown out of the military simply because of their sexual orientation. ...Read More
11-07-08 By Paula Neira, SLDN Board of Directors | Comment (0)
A Mom’s Perspective on Vets Day
As we approach Veterans Day on Tuesday, we will honor our brave vets by sharing the personal views of those who served in silence because of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” and their loved ones. These testimonies show the human face of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” – and serve as poignant reminders that until this law is overturned, our nation will not truly give all our patriots the honor and respect they deserve this Veterans Day. We begin our series with the story of Nancy Manzella – mother of former Army Sergeant Darren Manzella, who was discharged under “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” Darren’s sacrifice and courage in the face of injustice provides hope for a future in which all Americans can serve their country free from the chains of intolerance and discrimination. ...Read More
11-06-08 By Nancy Manzella | Comment (0)
Ironic: 12,000 vs. 12,500
Extended combat tours reveal how "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" deprives our armed forces of the qualified personnel who are needed at a time when the military is already stretched too thin. Each day the military denies our brave patriots the freedom to serve based on sexual orientation, the strength of our armed forces is put at greater risk. ...Read More
10-27-08 Comment (0)
Drop in Air Force Retention Rate Shows Need to Lift the Ban
"Don't Ask, Don't Tell" is not only discriminatory and costly to U.S. taxpayers, but it deprives our armed services - and our nation - of the very men and women who are needed now more than ever to defend us in a critical time of war. ...Read More
10-22-08 Comment (1)
An Open Letter to General Powell
Servicemembers Legal Defense Network Executive Director Aubrey Sarvis wrote an open letter to General Colin Powell this week, urging him to join SLDN in repealing “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” General Powell was a key figure in enacting this failed law, underscoring the importance of engaging him to partner with SLDN as we work to create a more inclusive military that allows all members of the armed forces to serve openly and honestly, regardless of sexual orientation. ...Read More
10-20-08 By Aubrey Sarvis, SLDN Executive Director | Comment (14)
Panel to Discuss “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” after Screening of “Ask Not” at Reel Affirmations
SLDN will host a panel discussion after the noon screening of "Ask Not" at Washington, D.C.'s Reel Affirmations film festival Saturday, October 18, in the Lincoln Theatre. "Ask Not," a groundbreaking film, takes a rare look at the moving experiences of gay soldiers who have served under "Don't Ask, Don't Tell." ...Read More
10-16-08 Comment (1)
Voting Requirements for Military Personnel
Military personnel stationed away from their homes can still make their voices heard in time for Election Day on November 4. Opportunities to vote early and make a difference in shaping the direction of our country's future are only a click away, but the time to act is now. ...Read More
10-16-08 Comment (0)
Question of the Day
Why do you think Congress should repeal "Don't Ask, Don't Tell?" ...Read More
10-16-08 Comment (19)
LGBT History Month
As we observe Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) History Month, we can also reflect on the strides that have been made and the challenges ahead in the ongoing struggle to repeal "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" (DADT) - the U.S. military's ban on open service for members based on sexual orientation. ...Read More
10-10-08 By Adam Ebbin | Comment (1)
Connecticut Marriage Ruling Highlights More Harms of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”
The Connecticut State Supreme Court ruled October 10 that same-sex couples have the same right to marry as heterosexual couples. While the decision is yet another milestone in the struggle for equality, this victory also demonstrates how "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" undermines the ability of service members to take full advantage of equal marriage rights. ...Read More
10-10-08 By Aaron Tax, Managing Attorney | Comment (0)
National Coming Out Day
SLDN celebrates National Coming Out Day while remembering our brave men and women in the armed forces who cannot serve openly and honestly due to the military's discriminatory "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" law. ...Read More
10-10-08 Comment (0)
Texas “Hope not Hate” Candlelight Vigil to Remember Hate Crime Victims
SLDN applauds Equality Texas for hosting a "Hope not Hate" 10th anniversary candlelight vigil, which will take place Sunday, October 12, at University Baptist Church in Austin, Texas, to commemorate the lives of hate crime victims James Byrd, Jr. and Matthew Shepard. The lives of these men inspire us to renew our commitment to equality and understanding as a means to overcoming discrimination and prejudice against all people. ...Read More
10-09-08 By Paul DeMiglio | Comment (0)
We’ve moved!
The new site provides all the important facts, figures, and history that SLDN clients and supporters have come to rely on from our previous site. But the new website takes our campaign to a new and more exciting level, providing an online action center for supporters and activists to become a central part of our growing campaign to repeal "Don't Ask, Don't Tell."
At the site, supporters can write to Congress, tell friends about the importance of lifting the ban and, of course, read and comment on SLDN's blog, and join our campaign's rapid response to breaking news and events.
Please continue to read Frontlines in our new location and comment on our postings.
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10-07-08 Comment (0)
Right-Wing Activists Seek to Reverse Progress on “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” Repeal
The arch-conservative Center for Military Readiness (CMR) held a private meeting this week in Washington, D.C., in a desperate attempt to undermine efforts to repeal the failed "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" law. ...Read More
10-02-08 Comment (0)
A New Debate at Ole Miss
I was excited to receive Aubrey Sarvis' invitation to participate in a forum at The University of Mississippi last week. Although not the Presidential Debate, this platform held national and regional LGBT leaders from across the country. ...Read More
09-30-08 By Retired Rear Admiral Jamie Barnett | Comment (1)
Welcome to Our New Site
Thank you for visiting the new SLDN.org!
Our new site provides all the important facts, figures, and history that SLDN clients and supporters have come to rely on from our previous website. But the new website takes our campaign to a new and more exciting level, providing an online action center for supporters and activists to become a central part of our growing campaign to repeal "Don't Ask, Don't Tell."
...Read More09-26-08 By Aubrey Sarvis, SLDN Executive Director | Comment (5)
The Outlook of Human Equality in a Small Mississippi Town
Traveling south for 2008's first Presidential Debate, I arrived in the small town of Oxford, Mississippi earlier this week. Never having been to Mississippi before, I found this quaint southern town to be just what I imagined of the American South. ...Read More
09-26-08 By Former Army Sergeant Darren Manzella | Comment (1)
Oxford, Mississippi: First Impressions
Tuesday evening in Oxford. I've been here barely two hours and already I've gotten the question of the day: What are you doing in Oxford? When I tell them I’m here for a discussion of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” as part of a conference on gay and lesbian issues sponsored by the university’s Gay Straight Alliance, and that I’m hoping we can get a question in at Friday’s presidential debate, the response is more surprise than anything else.
...Read More09-23-08 By Aubrey Sarvis, SLDN Executive Director | Comment (2)
Welcome New SLDN Staff
We are pleased to introduce you to our newest employees at the Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN). They join us at a critical time as we work to lift the discriminatory “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” ban on open service for members of the armed forces on the basis of sexual orientation. ...Read More
09-18-08 By SLDN Staff | Comment (0)
SLDN Board Member Achieves Milestone for Women
U.S. Air Force Auxiliary Civil Air Patrol Major General Amy Courter was recently elected the first female national commander in the organization’s 67-year history. As national commander, Courter will lead nearly 60,000 volunteers in the patrol’s three main Congressionally-assigned missions, which include emergency services, cadet programs and aerospace education. Courter will work to expand the patrol-led flight program and hopes to increase the visibility of the patrol while also expanding partnerships with schools.
The Civil Air Patrol is a volunteer-based organization that provides leadership training to youth and adults, many of whom learn to fly for the patrol, which works in conjunction with the U.S. Air Force.
First elected to the SLDN board in 2001, Amy Courter served as board co-chair from 2004-2006 and is currently Vice President of Information Technology for Valassis, Inc. Prior to her election as national commander of the Civil Air Patrol, Courter also received the Distinguished Service Award and served as Michigan Wing Commander for the organization from 1992-2002.
SLDN congratulates Major General Courter on her tremendous achievement and wishes her success in her new leadership role.
Labels: Amy Courter, Civilian Air Patrol, women
-----09-11-08 Comment (0)
Supporter Donates Tax Stimulus Check
The Servicemembers Legal Defense Network extends our gratitude to a generous donor from Fresno, CA, for recently contributing her $600 IRS stimulus check to our work.
This generous support comes at a critical juncture in the fight to lift the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” ban. The sacrifices of allies and generosity of donors inspire us to continue leading the fight to repeal this discriminatory policy while also providing legal assistance for servicemembers impacted by the ban every day.
...Read More09-11-08 By Marijean Hall, Development Director | Comment (0)
Supporter Donates Tax Stimulus Check
The Servicemembers Legal Defense Network extends our gratitude to a generous donor from Fresno, CA, for recently contributing her $600 IRS stimulus check to our work.
This generous support comes at a critical juncture in the fight to lift the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” ban. The sacrifices of allies and generosity of donors inspire us to continue leading the fight to repeal this discriminatory policy while also providing legal assistance for servicemembers impacted by the ban every day.
With the help of individuals like our Fresno donor, SLDN will remain on the forefront of advocating for the 65,000 gay and lesbian men and women in uniform who cannot speak for themselves. The ongoing generosity of donors from across the country brings us one day closer to a time when all members of the armed forces can serve the country they love openly, honestly and free from the chains of fear and discrimination.
Visit this page to donate to SLDN today. Thank you.
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09-11-08 Comment (0)
“Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” Makes the D-List
In the recent season finale of Kathy Griffin’s “My Life on the D-List,” the Bravo series addressed the presence of gay soldiers during Kathy’s visit to Walter Reed Army Medical Center to entertain recuperating service members with a special stand-up performance. ...Read More
09-11-08 By Paul DeMiglio | Comment (0)
“Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” Makes the D-List
In the recent season finale of Kathy Griffin’s “My Life on the D-List,” the Bravo series addressed the presence of gay soldiers during Kathy’s visit to Walter Reed Army Medical Center to entertain recuperating service members with a special stand-up performance. During the episode, she tours the hospital to chat with recovering soldiers and help them heal through laughter, as only Kathy can. In the course of her visit, she jokingly mentions “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” and asks about the presence of gay troops in the hospital. Toward the middle of the episode, one officer responds that “There’s some in there, don’t worry.”
Labels: Kathy Griffin, on tv, Walter Reed
-----09-11-08 Comment (0)
GOP Platform: Homosexuality Incompatible With Military Service
The Log Cabin Republicans have put the best face on the Republican Party's 2008 platform, which won't leave many American gays and lesbians smiling.
They write on their blog, " . . . rather than squabble over the platform (which we could have done), we decided to go to Minneapolis-St. Paul at the Republican National Convention and show LGBT Americans in a positive light. We’re going there to engage in conversations with delegates and Republicans of all stripes. Some will agree with us. Others won’t. One thing we know for sure is that we’re going to the RNC with a positive message about gay and lesbian Americans. We think that’s important.”
I think that’s important, too. Very important. But however “symbolic” platform language may be, and even though every candidate need not support every plank in it, a party’s platform is still a statement on where a party stands on the issues of our time. The Republican Party Platform, which convention delegates approved unanimously on Monday, certainly does not advance the position Servicemembers Legal Defense Network advocates: the repeal of the statute known as “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” and the passage of H.R. 1246. When that inevitably happens – and it is inevitable – our country will finally acknowledge what is already a fact – that 65,000 gays and lesbians are now fighting in the armed forces of the United States – and allow them to serve openly without fear of discovery, discharge, and the loss of their benefits.
We support this language in the Republican Party Platform: “Military priorities and mission must determine personnel policies.” You can’t have a man or woman in the infantry piloting a plane over Afghanistan, or a medic working as a navigator, etc., etc. And we strongly agree with the next sentence: “Esprit and cohesion are necessary for military effectiveness and success on the battlefield.“
It’s the sentence that follows that saddens and angers me: “To protect our servicemen and women and ensure that America’s Armed Forces remain the best in the world, we affirm the timelessness of those values, the benefits of traditional military culture, and the incompatibility of homosexuality with military service.”
Our servicemembers need “protection” from roving bands of gays and lesbians? Let’s get real, people. Our servicemembers need protection from hostile fire, not from the 65,000 gays and lesbians that every soldier, sailor, and airman knows are serving by their sides now with no apparent damage to esprit de corps and unit cohesion.
And homosexuality incompatible with military service? Ask Israel, whose military generally gets pretty high ratings. Ask our NATO allies who’ve managed to find homosexuality compatible enough. Many of them are actively recruiting gays and lesbian to help fill their ranks. This kind of language, in the platform of any political party in 2008, is offensive, insulting, and out of sync with what polls show most Americans, military and civilian, believe: that sexual orientation is not a factor when evaluating a person’s qualifications to serve in the military.
Fortunately for gays and lesbians everywhere, for Americans in general and for SLDN in particular, the majority of Republicans do not go along with the language of their own platform. A July Washington Post/ABC News poll showed that 64 percent of Republicans support allowing gays and lesbians to serve openly in the military. I wish I could say that the party’s candidate for president was among that 64 percent, but I can’t.
John McCain’s currently beleaguered choice for vice president, Governor Sarah Palin, has taken no public stand on DADT that I know of, but it’s hard to be optimistic. She supported the 1998 Alaska constitutional amendment barring marriage equality. She has been governor less than two years but has already supported stripping away domestic partner benefits for state workers. From that record, it doesn’t sound as if she’ll be advocating the repeal of DADT – unlike her fellow Republicans who are co-sponsors of H.R. 1246, notably Christopher Shays of Connecticut, Maryland’s Wayne Gilchrest, and Ileana Ros-Lehtinen of Florida.
Like my friends in the Log Cabin Republicans, I’m not giving up on the Republicans in Congress. I’m not giving up on the Republicans at all. It’s clear from the Washington Post/ABC News poll that the language in the platform does not represent the views of the majority of Republicans – or the majority of Americans, for that matter. Party leaders just have to catch up with party members.
“Don’t Ask Don’t Tell” is not an issue of one party versus another. It’s a matter of military readiness and what’s best for the country. The armed forces need all the qualified men and women they can get. It’s a matter of fairness. Bigotry is bipartisan, but so are civil rights. It comes down finally to military readiness and fairness. What’s fair for me is fair for you. Most of us, Republicans as well as Democrats, gays as well as straights, see that.
--Aubrey Sarvis
Labels: aubrey sarvis, don't ask don't tell, GOP, Log Cabin Republicans, McCain, Palin, Republican Convention, RNC
-----09-04-08 Comment (0)
Platform Victory in Denver
One of the most important things that came out of the Democratic Convention in Denver this week for me was the convention’s formal adoption of the platform committee’s language on “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”. The hard work, of course, had already been done behind the scenes by the committees in Cleveland and Pittsburgh, and by many of you. To that end, let me again thank Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin and all members of the two committees involved, especially Diego Sanchez who was so vocal and eloquent in his advocacy of this language. We owe all of them a big thank you.
Now, at long last, the Democratic Party and their presidential nominee have a formal position calling for the repeal of DADT and urging open service without regard to sexual orientation. I am told that Barrack Obama and Joe Biden will run on the platform language and embrace it, not run away from it. (As some of you already know, Joe Biden was one of the few senators in ’93 who voted no on DADT.)
This is hugely important. The policy SLDN has been advocating for years is now the official policy of one of the major political parties. Now, we work with the Republican Party to see if we can get similar language in their platform document. Unfortunately, the prospects are not promising right now. The Republican National Convention platform committee did meet recently and it looks like more of the same ’04 platform language; gays and lesbians are to be excluded from serving in the military. I am going to be talking to my Republican friends in the next few days to see if there is any possibility of offering a favorable and friendly DADT amendment in the Twin Cities when the RNC meets. More on this front later.
It is critical that both parties call for the repeal of DADT. This change in the law can only happen with a majority vote and we need both parties to make this policy change. It cannot happen without bipartisan support.
In the interim, raise a glass and cheer the good Democratic platform language below. It is so good, I thought you should see it in its entirely. Progress is being made.
“Allow All Americans to Serve
We will also put national security above divisive politics. More than 12,500 service men and women have been discharged on the basis of sexual orientation since the ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ policy was implemented, at a cost of over $360 million. Many of those forced out had special skills in high demand, such as translators, engineers, and pilots. At a time when the military is having a tough time recruiting and retaining troops, it is wrong to deny our country the service of brave, qualified people. We support the repeal of “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell” and the implementation of policies to allow qualified men and women to serve openly regardless of sexual orientation”
--Aubrey Sarvis
Labels: aubrey sarvis, barack obama, Democratic Platform, Joe Biden
-----08-29-08 Comment (0)
Michelle, Hillary, and Maureen at the DNC
As the surprise speaker, Michelle Obama was a big hit at the big GLBT luncheon Tuesday in Denver, sponsored by the HRC and the Victory Fund. Aubrey Sarvis blogs about it on the Huffington Post today. A lot of big Democratic names were there -- Barney Frank, Steny Hoyer, Tammy Baldwin, and more -- and all of them favor repeal of DADT.
We've come a long way in four years. Aubrey didn't miss Hillary's speech either, or Maureen Down's response to it.
Labels: aubrey sarvis, Barney Frank, Democrats, Huffington Post, Michelle Obama, Tammy Baldwin
-----08-28-08 Comment (0)
At the Democratic Convention the Mantra Is….
The Democratic National Convention keeps our man in Denver moving. From Google's tent (get a massage while your phone is charging) to the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee's reception to the hymn-singing ladies on the street, SLDN's Aubrey Sarvis is a busy man -- and everywhere he's pushing for the repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell and the passage of H.R. 1246. Read about it in his latest blog on the Huffington Post.
Labels: aubrey sarvis, Democrats, Huffington Post
-----08-26-08 Comment (0)
Starring in Denver: Barack and Hillary and Joe
SLDN's executive director Aubrey Sarvis blogs on the Huffington Post from the Democratic National Convention in Denver that Hillary Clinton and Joe Biden can help Obama or they can hurt him, but it's still up to Obama to seal the deal. That will determine the next leader of the most powerful country in the world. Whether that man is Obama or McCain, he will carry a heavy, heavy responsibility.
Labels: aubrey sarvis, barack obama, Democrats, Hillary Clinton, Joe Biden
-----08-26-08 Comment (0)
Hello Marijean
Please welcome Marijean Hall, SLDN’s new Development Director, who joined us last month.
Marijean has been a senior level nonprofit professional for 25 years, providing strategic/business planning, fundraising, and communication services to local and national organizations. She has developed successful fundraising programs for preeminent health care organizations including the American College of Cardiology, American Academy of Pediatrics, Georgetown University Medical Center and AIDS Action Foundation.
...Read More08-25-08 Comment (0)
Anxious Democrats
Aubrey Sarvis is blogging this week for the Huffington Post from the Democratic National Convention in Denver. He reports that the party faithful are full of hopeful anticipation mixed with a dash of apprehension. Why the apprehension? Look towards the Clintons. How much weight to give the Hillary factor? Will her most ardent supporters get on the Obama bandwagon, however reluctantly? Or are they so disaffected that they’ll climb aboard the McCain Express and elect the Republicans' man in November?
Labels: aubrey sarvis, Democrats, Huffington Post
-----08-25-08 Comment (0)
Transgender Veterans Survey Finds Discrimination by Military and Veterans Administration
A recent survey [PDF] by the Transgender American Veterans Association shows that transgender veterans are being turned away and being mistreated in high numbers by Veterans Administration medical facilities.
...Read More08-25-08 Comment (0)
Hello Marijean
Please welcome Marijean Hall, SLDN’s new Development Director, who joined us last month.
Marijean has been a senior level nonprofit professional for 25 years, providing strategic/business planning, fundraising, and communication services to local and national organizations. She has developed successful fundraising programs for preeminent health care organizations including the American College of Cardiology, American Academy of Pediatrics, Georgetown University Medical Center and AIDS Action Foundation.
With the opportunities that will come with a new administration and Congress, SLDN needs to substantially increase funding for our work to end “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” We are excited to have Marijean heading our development team during this important time.
Labels: Development, Marijean Hall, Staff
-----08-25-08 Comment (0)
Transgender Veterans Survey Finds Discrimination by Military and Veterans Administration
A recent survey by the Transgender American Veterans Association shows that transgender veterans are being turned away and being mistreated in high numbers by Veterans Administration medical facilities. The Palm Center at the University of California, Santa Barbara analyzed the responses of 827 transgender U.S. military veterans and active-duty personnel. 10% of respondents were turned away from the VA due to being transgender, while many reported other forms of discrimination including lack of respect from VA doctors (22%), non-medical staff (21%), and nurses (13%). In addition, among those who served under the “don’t ask, don’t tell policy,” 1 in 5 were questioned by an officer about their sexual orientation, a violation of the military’s DADT policy. A third reported there were suspicions about their sexual identity; indicating that officers were confusing that with gender variance. “I find it very disturbing that our proud veterans are being turned away by the VA because of who they are,” stated Monica Helms, President of Transgender American Veterans Association. “We served our country honorably and proudly and the VA medical benefits we earned should not be denied or diminished simply because of the direction our lives took after discharge from active service.” Other figures found in the survey also paint a bleak picture of how transgender veterans are being treated. VA medical services offered to other veterans are routinely denied transgender veterans, such as pap smears, mammograms, prostate exams, psychotherapy and hormone treatments. Also, respondents reported they were more likely to be turned away for treatment related to transgender health issues. Nearly one third of the survey participants reported having experienced discrimination in the workplace, with 31% reporting that they believed they had not been hired for a job specifically because they were transgender. A full 15% reported that they had been fired from a job for being transgender (with 40% of those people having been fired more than once).Labels: Palm Center, TAVA, transgender issues
-----08-25-08 Comment (0)
Standing on Principle
Aubrey Sarvis recently wrote in the Huffington Post about the Democratic Party’s draft platform that calls for the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” Four years ago, DADT was not even mentioned. The draft has to be approved by the convention next week, but that seems a virtual certainty. He compares this principled stand with others that were found controversial in their time, like the racial integration of the armed forces in 1948. Such major changes in attitude rise above partisanship. They’re not about what party we belong to but what kind of country we are.Labels: aubrey sarvis, Democratic Platform, don't ask don't tell, Huffington Post
-----08-21-08 Comment (0)
Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones Passes Suddenly
Servicemembers Legal Defense Network Executive Director Aubrey Sarvis expressed deep condolences on the sudden and sad death of Ohio Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones. Sarvis said, “With the passing of Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones, we have lost a fierce champion and a dear friend. Her opposition to ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ was just one example of her strong commitment to building a more just America, and insisting upon equality for all.”
Sarvis added, “We are extremely proud that Congresswoman Tubbs Jones was one of 143 House co-sponsors of H.R. 1246, the Military Readiness Enhancement Act.”
Labels: Congress, Tubbs Jones
-----08-21-08 Comment (0)
Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones Passes Suddenly
Servicemembers Legal Defense Network Executive Director Aubrey Sarvis expressed deep condolences on the sudden and sad death of Ohio Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones. Sarvis said, “With the passing of Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones, we have lost a fierce champion and a dear friend. Her opposition to ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ was just one example of her strong commitment to building a more just America, and insisting upon equality for all.”
08-21-08 Comment (0)
Thank You, Admiral Barnett
After 32 years of distinguished service, Rear Admiral Jamie Barnett retired from the U.S. Navy Reserve in June. In a virtual retirement message, he urged the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” Barnett recently wrote an Op-Ed in the Washington Post calling on military leaders to speak openly of how "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" injures our military and weakens our preparedness. This week, we are proud to announce that he is contributing his compensation from the Washington Post to SLDN. We are honored to Admiral Barnett’s contribution and proud that he is speaking out to right this wrong. On behalf of our clients and all who must serve in silence, we thank Admiral Jamie Barnett.
--Adam Ebbin
Labels: Jamie Barnett, the washington post
-----08-11-08 Comment (0)
“Never so Proud”
Upon accepting the position of Legislative Affairs Intern at Servicemembers Legal Defense Network, I never would have imagined that my experience would have allowed me to be a part of such a tremendous movement that improves both gay rights and the strength of our military.
As a Navy veteran who was pushed out of the Armed Services by the restrictions and harassment that accompanies the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” law, I decided that joining the efforts to lift the ban was best decision that I could make.
Over my experience during the summer, I was able to work with other allied LGBT organizations, speak first-hand with members of congress and congressional staff members, utilize the many great resources that the DC area has including the Library of Congress, and contribute toward the congressional testimony for the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” Review hearing. As a student one-year shy from an undergraduate degree, the opportunity I was given was unlike any other. The experience that I acquired at SLDN was not only personally rewarding, but rewarding in credible job experience that I will bring to future employers.
I had never felt so proud when Members of Congress were speaking out on my behalf, along with the other 45,000 who would serve if the law was repealed.
Hillary R. Kowalski
Former USN Airman
Labels: Hearings, Interns, Legislative Affairs
-----08-04-08 Comment (0)
Irony in the House Dead? Not Yet
In his most recent Huffington Post article, SLDN Executive Director Aubrey Sarvis reflects on the irony of Congress holding historic hearings on “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” the very same day lawmakers attended a ceremony commemorating the 60th anniversary of President Truman’s integration of the armed forces.
In his article, Sarvis notes, “The very same arguments that were made in 1948 against mingling the races in the military were made Wednesday against mixing homosexuals and heterosexuals...But there was a major difference: this time the two witnesses testifying to the hotbed of sexual license that our armed forces would instantly become should homosexuals be allowed to romp freely through the barracks looked, to put it charitably, foolish.”
Click here to visit Huffington Post and learn what Sarvis is saying about "Irony in the House.”
-Adam Ebbin
Labels: Hearings, Huffington Post
-----07-25-08 Comment (0)
My Excitement Was Warranted
(Gen. Coleman, Capt. Darrah & S/Sgt. Alva)Yesterday’s hearing couldn’t have gone any better. I for one could not have felt more elated and impressed by the response from the subcommittee members. Based on the questions and comments from the Congressional members present, I think we will see repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” in the not too distant future. What a great feeling. And, I have new heroes in Congress. After spending over eight years under that policy, it heartens me that one day no one will have to feel like those of us who served under it felt.
Representative Ellen Tauscher ranks high on my list of favorites. She is lead sponsor the Military Readiness Enhancement Act in the House, which drives her to the top of the list. Her appearance at the hearing yesterday only helped to lift her in my eyes. She suggested that the issue of gays in the military presented the last civil rights hurdle for us to over come.
Representative Patrick Murphy presented some very pointed questions and as a fellow, former service member, I am very proud. He asked if our service members had the professionalism to serve with members of differing sexual orientation, adding that he found it insulting for Ms. Donnelly to suggest otherwise. He definitely has a place on my list of heroes.
Representatives Shays and Snyder also belong on my list of heroes. Shays said he thought the policy was not only unpatriotic and counterproductive, but “downright cruel.” Truer words could not have been said. Snyder, equally impressive, pointed out the fear mongering attitude presented by Ms. Donnelly’s argument that HIV infection would somehow spiral out of control if the ban disappeared.
I would be terribly remiss if I did not mention the outstanding performance of the witnesses who support repeal. Staff Sergeant Eric Alva gets my deepest thanks, not only for his testimony, but what he has given to this country, and this fight. He has given more than I can ever understand, and I can only hope my meager thanks somehow help. Captain Joan Darrah, was amazing and presented a clear picture of what it means to be gay in the military. General Vance Coleman showed us how the arguments against repeal have already been used and defeated with his comparison to the desegregation of the armed forces. He was poignant and evocative. Thanks and kudos goes out to each one.
What an exciting day, and what an exciting future that lays ahead. No doubt more work still needs done, and servicemembers still need help, protection and representation. I can’t even begin to explain my excitement helping to take some of these steps to equality, but we still have to fight on and win. Hooah.
-Former Army Sergeant Daniel Pond
SLDN Legal Intern
Labels: Hearings
-----07-24-08 Comment (0)
With Enemies Like This….Who Needs Friends
(Gen. Coleman, Captain Darrah and Former S/Sgt. Alva Testifying Before Congress)
This morning's Washington Post offers up a scathing critique of Elaine Donnelly's performance during yesterday's historic Congressional hearing on the impact of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell." Donnelly, President of the Center for Military Readiness, accomplished what many of us working to lift the ban on lesbians, gays and bisexuals in the military could only dream of -- consensus.
According to reporter Dana Milbank, "Donnelly treated the panel to an extraordinary exhibition of rage. She warned of 'transgenders in the military.' She warned that lesbians would take pictures of people in the shower. She spoke ominously of gays spreading 'HIV positivity' through the ranks," and her testimony "had the effect of increasing bipartisan sympathy for the cause."
Excellent testimony supporting repeal was provided by U.S. Army Major General Vance Coleman (Ret.), U.S. Navy Captain Joan E. Darrah (Ret.), and former Marine Staff Sgt. Eric F. Alva.
Click here to watch the video webcast of the hearing.
-Adam Ebbin
Labels: elaine donnelly, Hearings, the washington post
-----07-24-08 Comment (0)
Friends in Unlikely Places
Yesterday, the National Review published a strong and thoughtful article by the magazine’s contributing editor, Deroy Murdoch, calling for the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.”
“’Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ is a Clinton-era relic. It belongs in the Museum of the 1990s, wedged between the Nirvana CDs and shares of WorldCom stock,” writes Murdoch.
Click here to read the article in its entirety.
-Adam Ebbin
07-24-08 Comment (1)
Hearing Excitement
I am excited to hear that Congress is finally looking into “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” After having served more than eight years in the Army, I can tell you about the difficulties of living under this very tough law and policy. The fact that Congress decided to look at it again shows the changing attitudes towards lesbians, gays, and bisexuals serving openly.
Although I had an atypical experience in the Army, I know many people that did not. I did not serve as openly as I would have liked, however I also did not face the threats, harassment or abuse that many face today. I felt the love of serving outweighed my desire to come out, and therefore kept my sexual identity to myself. I knew many other gay or lesbian service members who served similarly. The need for this law, if it ever really existed, passed long ago.
I can only imagine an Army where I wouldn’t have to hide or dodge questions about with whom I hang out, date or even share a meal. I could attend a formal gathering with a date instead of making up lies about not having anyone to bring. I could actually have a normal conversation with people without constantly analyzing which pronouns I choose or taking care not to mention names. I could just let people know me for me, and not the me I put forward to protect myself and my career. To lift this ban, would lift the incredibly heaving burden weighing down all lesbian, gay or bisexual service members. And again, right now I can only imagine that Army.
This hearing before the House this week, while a step forward, remains only a step. Many more steps must follow in order for those things I can only imagine to become reality.
-Former Army Sergeant Daniel Pond
SLDN Legal Intern
Labels: Hearings
-----07-23-08 Comment (0)
The Testimony of Three Witnesses
On the eve of historic Congressional hearings, SLDN Executive Director Aubrey Sarvis shares with the Huffington Post, the identities of the three patriotic men and women who will step forward and give testimony on the urgent need to repeal "Don't Ask, Don't Tell."
In his article, Sarvis discusses the importance of the hearings and predicts, "in the not too distant future the era of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' will seem part of a sad and dusty past, vaguely unreal, like a dream, almost quaint." Click here to visit Huffington Post and learn what Sarvis is saying about "The Testimony of Three Witnesses.”
-Adam Ebbin
Labels: Huffington Post
-----07-22-08 Comment (0)
Tom Carpenter—In His Own Words
As a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, former Marine and most senior director of Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (“SLDN”), the hearing before the House Armed Services Military Personnel Subcommittee is a very significant and historic event to me. I am confident it is the beginning of the end of the misguided law known as “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”.
When candidate Bill Clinton announced to some of my friends in Los Angeles that he would lift the ban on GLB servicemembers, little did he know the firestorm that would erupt during the first months of his administration when he tried to fulfill this pledge. He faced open opposition from the Joint Chiefs of Staff as well as leaders of both parties. As Congressional hearings began, the late Tom Stoddard, who was leading the Campaign for Military Service, an organization supporting lifting of the ban, asked me to come to Washington to help lobby Congress. Since the late Sen. Strom Thurmond had appointed me to the Academy, I was asked to meet with his staff and the staff of former Sen. Sam Nunn. This was not a pleasant mission. It was apparent to me, from the comments of these staff members, mostly retired military officers, that the best we could hope for was the compromise proposed by the late Charlie Moskos, which became known as “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”. It was clear to me that this law was bankrupt from its inception for one simple reason- it was contrary to the military’s highest core values of honor and integrity.
In 1996, SLDN’s co-founders, Michelle Beneke and Dixon Osburn asked me to join the Board. I gladly accepted the invitation with the knowledge that the road ahead would be difficult and often painful. SLDN was at that time, as eloquently stated by retired Commander and present Board co-chair Zoe Dunning, the 911 for Servicemembers who ran afoul of this new law. Over the past 15 years SLDN has helped over 8,000 troops. During that same period nearly 12,500 have been discharged under the law and tens of thousands have left the service because they could no longer live a lie. I have met hundreds of these patriots- these are not mere numbers to me, but human beings who have suffered loss of careers and often abandonment by family and friends. Those who were discharged under the law are branded forever by their discharge certificate which states they were fired because of “homosexual conduct”, even though they did nothing more than tell the truth when asked about their sexual orientation. One of my closest friends, also a Naval Academy graduate and former Marine, became so depressed by the loss of his career, he took his own life. They are all casualties of a law that is un-American and must be repealed.
Thankfully, the American people get it. In several recent polls, 75 percent support open and honest service. There has been a sea change since 1993, and now is time for Congress to carry out the will of the people. With our country engaged in two wars and the land forces stretched to the breaking point, we need every patriot who wants to serve their country. The Military Readiness Enhancement Act (HR1246) would repeal the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” law. This bill has 143 co-sponsors in the House of Representatives. The hearing this week is the first step in the process of educating members of Congress about why the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” must go. I have great faith in the innate fairness of most of my fellow citizens-including members of Congress. This is their opportunity to right a wrong. If they listen to the compelling testimony about this injustice, I am confident they will find their way to do what is clearly in the best interest of the country we all love- repeal the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” law by enacting the Military Readiness Enhancement Act.
-Tom Carpenter
07-21-08 Comment (3)
Why Should You Care?
I care deeply about repealing the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ law that prohibits lesbian, gay and bisexual service members from serving openly in the US military. But then, I am just a little biased. I retired from the Air Force last year after a 22 year career and a first-hand view of the impact of serving in the closet. The pretentious duplicity of gays and lesbians pretending not to be gay while the military pretends they don’t know we are serving is absolutely ludicrous and serves no one. Not the gays and lesbians who can’t bring their whole self to work, and not the military that is forced to waste precious resources on the discharges of those who are found out (often by someone else outing them out of retribution). That’s why, once I retired, I volunteered to support the Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN). SLDN provides free legal services to service members who get into trouble due to “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” and they are leading the fight to repeal the failed law.
Maybe you don’t care that 12,500 service members have been discharged since the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” law was implemented in 1994. Neither are you impressed that DoD had spent some $400 million in implementing the law. Finally, so what if 24 other nations (including Great Britain) have full open service for their gay and lesbian servicemembers?
I’m guessing that even if you don’t know any gay and lesbian servicemembers, if you are LGBT or a straight ally, you care about equal rights, don’t you? Did you know that “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” is the only law in the US that mandates someone be fired for being gay- just for being who they are? Repealing this law is not just a military readiness issue, but also a civil rights issue. Just as the military led the way to abolish racial segregation (by President Truman’s executive order in 1948), it now finds itself on the front lines in the fight to end legal discrimination of the LGBT community. The good news is, that once given the charge; the military can make anything happen. In fact, once mandated to desegregate whites and blacks, integration in the Army took only five years to accomplish. That’s largely due to the nature of military life…superiors issue orders and subordinates follow them or get weeded out. A National Defense Research Institute (RAND) report also found that the military is very capable of changing “how troops behave toward previously excluded (and despised) minority groups, even if underlying attitudes toward those minority groups change very little.” They pointed out that “leadership” is what makes the difference.
Today, there are more than 65,000 LGB service members serving on active duty and the Guard and Reserves today; many of them in critical job skills and, they’ve served in every conflict since the Revolutionary War. There are also over one million gay veterans in the US today
A new study, recently released by the University of California’s Palm Center and conducted by four retired military officers, including the three-star Air Force lieutenant general who was integral to the implementation of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”, said that “evidence shows that allowing gays and lesbians to serve openly is unlikely to pose any significant risk to morale, good order, discipline or cohesion”. Navy Vice Admiral Jack Shanahan said he was struck by the loss of personal integrity required by individuals to carry out “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.”
Seventy-five (75) percent of Americans in a new Washington Post–ABC News poll said that gay people who are open about their sexual orientation should be allowed to serve openly, up from 62% in early 2001and 44% in 1993.
HR 1246, the Military Readiness Enhancement Act, has 143 Congressional co-sponsors. This bill would repeal “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” and replace it with a policy of non-discrimination in our armed forces.
So, I ask you to care about repealing the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” law because it is just the right thing to do, and it can lead the way to providing complete civil rights to our entire LBGT community. The hearing that will take place on Wednesday is historic and a major step in the right direction. It is only the beginning though. It is up to each of us to exercise one of the rights we currently enjoy…freedom of speech, to gain the rest of the rights we are entitled to. Click here to take action and sign SLDN’s petition to Congress telling them to pass the Military Readiness Enhancement Act and click here to join the grass roots effort. Each of us really does have the power to make a difference. Take a stand and make your difference today.
-Linda Thomas
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07-21-08 Comment (0)
Senator Nunn’s Last Chance
With the Democratic and Republican presidential candidates finally confirmed, attention is turning towards who Senators Obama and McCain will choose as running mates. One of the names being suggested as a possible Vice Presidential material for Sen. Obama is former Georgia Senator Sam Nunn, one of the architects of the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” law.
In his most recent Huffington Post article, SLDN Executive Director Aubrey Sarvis takes on the rumors that Nunn will be selected by Obama as his running mate. Sarvis notes, "Nunn has got to go all the way on opening the military to qualified gays and lesbians who want to serve – not half way, as he’s been doing lately."
Click here to visit Huffington Post and learn why Sarvis is saying that this is “Senator Nunn’s Last Chance.”
-Adam Ebbin
Labels: Barak Obama, Huffington Post, Nunn
-----07-18-08 Comment (0)
Weekly News Round-Up!
This past week has seen a number of newspapers, from across the country, weighing in on the need to repeal “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” With Congress likely to hold its first hearing into the liabilities of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” since the law was enacted in 1994, communities from coast to coast are taking the opportunity to remind lawmakers that the ban on openly lesbian, gay and bisexual service members needs to be repealed.
Late last week the editors at the Washington Post backed repeal as did the Ft. Worth Star-Telegram. This weekend the Roanoke Times, Seattle Times, Boston Herald, and the Oregonian each tackled the issue in poignant and intelligent editorials calling for an end to discrimination in the ranks.
Poll after poll shows that the public overwhelmingly believes gays should be allowed to serve openly in the U.S. military. This weekend’s flurry of editorials reinforces the fact that Red and Blue America are in agreement – Congress must repeal “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.”
-Adam Ebbin
Labels: in the news
-----07-14-08 Comment (0)
Sarvis Discusses Possible Congressional Hearing on “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”
Last month SLDN announced that more than 600 service members had been discharged from the military in 2007 because they are lesbain, gay or bisexual, bringing the total number of men and women discharged under "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" to nearly 12,500.
In his most recent Huffington Post article, SLDN Executive Director Aubrey Sarvis reflects on the possibility of Congressional hearings examining the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" law and the personnel needs of our armed forces. Sarvis notes, "It is historic because any serious discussion of the crisis the country faces in recruiting and retaining qualified men and women in the military...will require a fresh and serious look at the odious ‘compromise’ known as ‘Don't Ask, Don't Tell.’"
Click here to visit Huffington Post and learn why Sarvis is calling the first Congressional hearing on "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" in fifteen years "historic."
-Victor Maldonado Labels: DADT, Hearings, Huffington Post
-----07-11-08 Comment (0)
Washington Post Urges Repeal
This morning's Washington Post includes an editorial urging Congress to repeal the ban on openly lesbian, gay and bisexual service members, noting that it is Time to End 'Don't Ask'.
Citing a "Report of the General/Flag Officers' Study Group" released this week by the Michael D. Palm Center of the University of California at Santa Barbara, the Post called the group's findings "devastating."
"Attitudes in the military are changing," wrote the editorial board. "Allowing gay men and lesbians to serve openly 'is unlikely to pose any significant risk to morale, good order, discipline, or cohesion.'" The article concludes by exhorting readers, "That reexamination should be the beginning of the end of 'don't ask, don't tell.'"
We couldn't agree more.
You can send a letter to the editor applauding this morning's editorial by emailing .
Labels: editorials, the washington post
-----07-11-08 Comment (0)
Tick, Tick, Tick, Tick, Tick, Tick, Tick, Tick…
Sunday, July 13th -- On Sunday, 60 Minutes will rebroadcast a story by correspondent Lesley Stahl reporting on a growing number of openly lesbian and gay troops serving on active duty in the United States military. Originally broadcast in December 2007, the story includes an interview with Army Sergeant Darren Manzella and an update noting that he has since been discharged under the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" law. Stahl's report also looks at SLDN's work in assisting service personnel such as Manzella, and the organization's campaign to repeal "Don't Ask, Don't Tell."
Tune in: 60 Minutes; CBS TV - Check your local listing, July 13.
Labels: Darren Manzella, in the news, SLDN on 60 Minutes
-----07-11-08 Comment (0)
Tune In—SLDN In the News II
Monday, July 14th -- Logo Television's Jason Bellini will interview SLDN Executive Director Aubrey Sarvis and Army Sergeant Darren Manzella, the combat decorated medic recently discharged under "Don't Ask, Don't Tell." The program will include discussion of the support Manzella received in battle zones and how the upcoming presidential election could impact on the prospects for repealing "Don't Ask. Don't Tell."
Tune in: CBS News on Logo; Logo TV - 7 pm on Monday, July 14.
Labels: in the news
-----07-11-08 Comment (0)
Tune In—SLDN In the News
Friday July 11th -- Tune into Sirius Satellite Radio to hear former Army Sergeant and SLDN client Darren Manzella interviewed on the Michelangelo Signorile Show this Friday. Sergeant Manzella will talk about his personal experience coming out to his fellow soldiers, his appearance on 60 Minutes and his recent discharge from the Army following his second tour of duty in the Middle East.
Tune in: Michelangelo Signorile Show; Sirius Satellite Radio, OutQ Channel 109 - 3:30 pm on Friday, July 11.
-Victor MaldonadoLabels: in the news
-----07-11-08 Comment (0)
Memories on the 4th
I love fireworks. For some reason they always make me smile. For me, they are one of the joys of the Fourth of July celebrations. I get to see them live, on T.V. and from all over the country. I have seen fireworks in many places around the world and for many reasons, but nothing compares to the firework displays on the 4th. This year I get to see the fireworks in our nation’s Capitol which I hear are spectacular, so I am very excited!
This will be my second 4th of July celebration since leaving the Army, and I have been thinking back on the eight or so Independence Days I celebrated while serving. I remember families with blankets on the fields, kids running around, many a Bar-B-Que going on, and the music. Everyone was in high sprits, laughing and joking and just having a great time. Every year there would be invites to back yard parties, company parties, platoon parties, and various others. These were usually fun events where people would bring boyfriends, girlfriends, wives, husbands and children.
In some ways those memories make me sad because for all of the good times, I never got the chance to celebrate the 4th with someone special – because of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” doing so could have cost me my career. This year, however, I will celebrate the 4th with someone I care about, which is something I couldn’t quite do while in the service, at least not in the same way those families on their blankets could. Being gay in the military was tough, and sometimes it just took the joy out of celebrations. I know what it is like to have to hide yourself and still try to enjoy the good parts of life. My heart goes out to those service members still serving both openly and in silence, and those who have served in the past. Remember, the fight goes on, and we will win.
-Former Army Sergeant Daniel Pond
SLDN Legal Intern
07-03-08 Comment (0)
Kathi Westcott—Legal Eagle
Kathi Wescott and I first met a few months after I had returned from deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. It was the Spring of 2003, and SLDN was conducting one of its first Lobby Days on Capitol Hill. During the training for the event, I ended up in a work group with Kathi that had to role-play meeting Congressional members and staffers. My first impression of Kathi was that she had an incredible level of expertise and command of the issues surrounding “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” (DADT). Even though I was familiar with the struggles service members faced under DADT as a reservist and throughout a recent deployment, Kathi ended up educating me on DADT and opened my eyes to the many issues in our fight for repeal. I was specifically impressed and touched by her dedication to making that event a success, even enlisting her own mother to help us lobby on Capitol Hill.
Over the years, as I increased my involvement with SLDN and as I got to know Kathi more, I began to rely on her for professional advice as well. As a Judge Advocate General (JAG) with the Army National Guard, I would call on Kathi to help me respond to DADT issues within my own command. The soldiers I worked with were treated with more dignity, respect and fairness because of her advice and involvement. I have also witnessed Kathi’s advocacy and legal skills up close. Kathi’s calm, thoughtful, and expert counsel guides service members through what can be very trying experiences. Service members who rely on her advice are no doubt grateful to Kathi and SLDN’s legal staff for their skill and aplomb in expertly working both the legal and non-legal issues in their cases.
Kathi has handled hundreds, if not thousands, of calls for legal assistance and consultation. She has worked tirelessly to advocate for LGBT service members before administrative boards, military commands, the media, on Capitol Hill, at the Pentagon, and in the courts. She has worked quietly behind the scenes for LGBT service members in situations where her ease, grace and subtle touch were as important as her legal expertise in getting as just a result as possible. She has stood firm in high-profile situations where she used her considerable talents as an advocate and spokesperson to influence decision-makers and the public at large. Kathi has done all of this and more for nearly ten years, accumulating one of the deepest institutional knowledge bases and level of proficiency on the fight to repeal DADT of anyone, anywhere.
At all levels of SLDN’s organization we are fortunate to have true patriots who fight tirelessly for LGBT service members around the world. Kathi is the epitome of this dedication and the example that Kathi has set for all of us represents a very high bar.
Kathi’s influence has made me want to do more to end DADT, to increase my efforts with SLDN, and to reach out proactively to those in need who serve our nation under this oppressive policy. I know she has similarly inspired countless others to do the same.
I am humbled by Kathi’s devotion to ending DADT and her service to this ever-important cause. Please join me as I congratulate Kathi on all that she has done and all that I know she will continue to do as she moves into a different role with SLDN. Kathi, I salute your service to LGBT service members and to SLDN and I salute your dedication to continuing this fight.
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07-03-08 Comment (0)
Pride & Patriotism
Atlanta’s Creative Loafing this week chronicles the experiences of five service members affected by “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”. Arab linguists, a World War II vet and a former member of the Air Force who served in Iraq (pictured) are among those whose stories are told. SLDN Board Member Jeff Cleghorn is quoted in the story too.
Click here to read it.
-Adam EbbinLabels: Atlanta, linguists, stephen benjamin
-----07-03-08 Comment (0)
Enough!
Last month SLDN announced the discharge of combat medic Sergeant Darren Manzella from the U. S. Army under the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” law. Though Manzella is a decorated veteran, and Pentagon studies have shown that openly gay service members do not affect unit cohesion or troop morale, the law still bans openly gay, lesbian and bisexual Americans from military service. Sadly, Darren Manzella is just the latest casualty of this law.
In his most recent Huffington Post article, SLDN Executive Director Aubrey Sarvis reflects on the meaning of Sergeant Manzella’s discharge and examines the roots of the civil rights movement noting, “The civil rights movement didn’t begin with Rosa Parks, and the struggle for LGBT rights didn’t begin with the Stonewall riots, but both events were catalysts for great social change.”
Click here to visit Huffington Post and learn why Sarvis is saying “Enough!” and why we need, now more than ever, to repeal “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”.
Labels: Darren Manzella, Huffington Post
-----07-01-08 Comment (0)
Kathi Westcott
I am personally grateful to Kathi Westcott for any number of important reasons, not the least of which is that she, and her life partner Teri, kindly offered their assistance in vetting a guy I met in July 2001 to see if he was “husband material.” I fondly recall going to dinner with Kathi and Teri on Tuesday, July 17, 2001 and asking them if they would mind if a guy I had met the Saturday prior could join us. Kevin Kirby joined us for dinner, and now – coming up on seven years later – he jokingly, and affectionately, refers to that night as the “lesbian inquisition.”
I had the great pleasure of working with Kathi as an SLDN Staff Attorney, and she was a valued friend. Given my past treacherous dating history, coupled with her personal knowledge of me, it made good sense to reach out to her for an assessment of Kevin. I am proud to say that her assessment was quite positive and – as the test of time has proven – accurate.
Accuracy is Kathi Westcott’s stock in trade, and compassion is her greatest attribute. She came to SLDN in May 11, 1999 and has these nine years later left her mark by having zeroed in on the legal issue impacting the lives of many hundreds of service members, providing them with accurate and compassionate legal representation. Kathi’s considerable legal skill led to her eventual rise within SLDN to the position of Legal Director.
June 30th marked Kathi’s final day at SLDN, as she is leaving to take a new position with Change to Win. As all of us who know Kathi, and particularly those of us who have been privileged to work with Kathi, can attest, this is Change to Win’s gain and SLDN’s loss.
I can’t even begin to express how valuable her effort has been to SLDN, and to so many of our lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered troops. I think the defining case of Kathi’s SLDN legal career may well have been that of PFC Barry Winchell. PFC Winchell was brutally murdered in his sleep on July 5, 1999 at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, by two other soldiers who believed he was gay.
Beginning almost immediately following the murder, SLDN received multiple reports from gay and lesbian residents of nearby communities that the Army was attempting to whitewash the anti-gay aspect of PFC Winchell’s tragic death. Kathi was immediately dispatched to Fort Campbell and she spent countless hours traveling between Washington, D.C. and Fort Campbell to watch over the Army’s investigation into the murder and, later, to watchdog the courts martials of the two defendants.
Thereafter, following two murder convictions, Kathi turned her attention to the Fort Campbell chain-of-command, to include the then Commanding General who SLDN concluded had allowed a climate of harassment and hostility to fester targeting perceived gay and lesbian soldiers. Kathi can rightfully take credit for having led the fight that resulted in the first ever documented instance of a General Officer paying a price for official indifference to the well-being of their gay soldiers (the General’s promotion to his third star was delayed for nearly two years, with several U.S. Senators, led by the courageous Sen. Edward Kennedy, publicly opposing his promotion).
Several months following the Fort Campbell murder convictions, the Army post received a new Commanding General. I had the pleasure of traveling with Kathi to meet with the new Commander, Maj. Gen. Richard Cody (who was later promoted to full General and served as the Army’s Vice Chief of Staff). Kathi eloquently urged Maj. Gen. Cody to avoid the mistakes of his predecessor, and to implement programs to ensure that all of his soldiers were truly treated with dignity and respect.
When the history book of SLDN is written, Kathi Westcott’s accuracy and compassion will be rightfully recognized. I think I can confidently speak for every LGBT service member and Veteran when I say to Kathi how very much she is appreciated, and how very much she will be missed.
-Jeff Cleghorn
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06-30-08 Comment (0)
Women’s Liberation? No, Oppression.
Last week SLDN released new data showing that women in the Air Force and Army make up a disproportionately large percentage of discharges under “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” (DADT). While women make up approximately fifteen percent of the armed forces, they account for nearly half of all discharges from those two branches. Why are women being singled out so disproportionately? Only the Pentagon can say. But what seems fairly obvious is that DADT is being used in an arbitrary fashion to target women in the military.
SLDN Executive Director Aubrey Sarvis considers why a tool as arbitrary as DADT even exists. While our allies in Canada and Britain allow their military commanders to judge who is fit for service, why does the U.S. Congress feel the need to take this decision out of the hands of our military leaders? Why hasn’t Congress repealed “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”?
Click here to visit Huffington Post and learn more about why we need, now more than ever, to repeal this law and why Sarvis is saying, “Women’s Liberation? No, Oppression.”
-Victor Maldonado
Labels: Huffington Post, women
-----06-30-08 Comment (0)
An Interview with Sergeant Darren Manzella
Openly gay Army Sergeant Darren Manzella was discharged on June 10 under the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” (DADT) law forbidding military service by openly gay, lesbian and bisexual Americans. Manzella spotlighted the injustice of DADT when he was profiled by the CBS news magazine 60 Minutes in December 2007. In that interview he told correspondent Lesley Stahl that he served openly during much of his time in the Army, with the full support of his colleagues and command.
Manzella, 30, enlisted in the U.S. Army in 2002 and was twice deployed to the Middle East in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was awarded the Combat Medical Badge for providing medical care to his fellow soldiers, Iraqi National Guardsmen and civilians while under fire.
SLDN: How did it feel to learn of your discharge?
Manzella: When I first found out that I was being discharged I was disappointed even though I knew that it was a possibility. However I had begun to hope that the Army was going to retain me because I was an asset to the military and this country, regardless of my sexual orientation. When my commander informed that me I was being recommended for discharge, I had received orders and was anticipating a transfer to Fort Drum, NY to begin a hospital position at their medical facility.
It was difficult to be told, despite serving in a war zone for two rotations and proving my skills in combat, that the Army no longer wanted me to continue serving. And to be told that I was being discharged, not because of bad conduct or poor work performance, but because of who I am was frustrating.
What was the reaction of your fellow soldiers to your appearance on 60 Minutes, and now to your discharge?
After my appearance on 60 Minutes I received a lot of support from most of my colleagues. Some were surprised that I made such a public statement but told me that they were proud of me for standing up for people who could not speak out. To them, I was still SERGEANT Manzella though. I really didn’t notice a change in how I was treated or viewed.
Many of my peers and co-workers voiced to me that they felt it was unfair that I was being discharged. They felt, as many people in our military and society feel, that an able and competent soldier should be retained especially in this time when we are fighting two wars and need every capable man and woman who is willing to put on a uniform and serve their country.
Do you have any regrets about coming out on national television?
I do not and will not regret ever speaking out against “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”. I feel that I had an opportunity to use my voice and offer it to the thousands of gay and lesbian service members who are forced to serve in silence. I had the opportunity to request a board and rebut my statements that were seen on the 60 Minutes segment. I d