Let gay people serve openly in the military
I would like to comment on the Another Voice column regarding not rushing the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” While the writer is correct that there is no legitimate reason for the policy in noncombat positions, he makes the false assumption that the notion does not transfer to positions in combat. For if equality is not everything, as the writer suggests, then it would mean that all men and women are not equal, most assuredly lesbians and gay men.
The sentiment that national security would be compromised if gays and lesbians were openly allowed to serve is offensive. It suggests that gay Americans are inefficient for military duty, due to the alleged affects it would have on their straight counterparts, who would be so unable to deal with open gay people that it would render them unable to perform their duties. This is an insult to American heroes like Sgt. Leonard Matlovich and the countless gay people who have honorably and successfully served and are serving right now, albeit in silence.
With the establishment of equal marriage in states across the country, there will be less and less reason for Don’t Ask Don’t Tell to exist. It cannot be repealed soon enough.
Bruce Kogan
President, Stonewall Democrats of Western New York
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