Guest Author - Sherrie Knoller
It is official that the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy has been repealed. This has certainly become a victory for many who have felt pressure and isolation under this policy, which was enacted in 1993. Service members were not allowed to tell anyone about their sexual orientation. If it were know that the service member was a homosexual than the consequence would be discharge from service. So what does that mean now for service members?
The revisions will now allow previous service members who were discharged under the policy can re-enter. The service member will not be required if asked to reveal sexual orientation and will continue to be a private matter. Nor should anyone ask the person about his or her sexual orientation. The standards for conduct will still remain the same. Service members will treat other service members fairly, with dignity, and be respectful of each other.
Fraternization will still be the same no matter what the sexual orientation is. This is same for any work environment, to be free of any type of condition that would prevent a service member from performing his or her duty. The dress code will remain the same. To dress accordance with the military dress code because not only representing yourself but you are representing the military.
For some this change may make them feel uncomfortable as with all changes. It takes time to adjust. Due to the “ Don’t ask, Don’t Tell” policy lost many service members who perform well at their job were discharge due to this policy.
Some may say that this is special treatment and other may say that this policy should have not been enacted. That the “Don’t’ Ask, Don’t Tell” policy discriminates due to a person’s sexual orientation. Why should it truly matter about race, sex, religion, and sexual orientation when the service member performs to the best of their ability to serve and protect our country?
The most important thing is what the service member does everyday to protect our country. They spend long hours at their job day to day. Working in conditions that most people can’t imagine. Worrying about their life and the life of their fellow soldiers. All the time having to lie about whom they are in fear of losing their job. No one should have to be in a work environment where you have to be a different person for the sake of the job.
