Congress and the White House have begun working toward adding a repeal of “don’t ask, don’t tell” to next year’s defense appropriation bill. President Obama’s State of the Union remarks in support of the repeal have revived controversy and drawn harsh criticism from some, including Sen. John McCain.
Introduced in 1993 by President Clinton, DADT bans openly homosexual and bisexual persons from serving in the armed forces. At the time, the legislation was a progressive move that ended a complete ban on non-heterosexual service members and regulations that required enlistees to disclose their orientation. Seventeen years later, some say it’s time for more progress.
The “don’t ask” part of the law’s nickname refers to regulations barring superiors from seeking information on individuals’ sexual orientation, and “don’t tell” indicates that non-heterosexual service members should not disclose their orientation.
DADT supporters fear that allowing open homosexuality would create tension and negatively impact unit cohesion, though studies refute such claims.
While military leaders are divided on the issue, Admiral Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, wants DADT repealed. Mullen cites concern for the compromised integrity of soldiers who are forced to conceal their sexuality. Defense Secretary Robert Gates has also joined the call to repeal the policy, saying the military will work toward solutions to some of the concerns the repeal raises regarding regulations on troop housing and fraternization.
A 2008 Military Times poll found that nearly 60 percent of troops oppose repealing DADT. Ten percent say they would consider leaving the military if the policy is reversed. As a result, supporters say it should be left in place out of respect for the troops’ preferences.
While service members consistently poll in favor of DADT, public opinion is shifting in the opposite direction. Gallup reports that 69 percent of Americans favor allowing homosexuals to serve openly. Interestingly, the biggest increase in support is found among conservatives and regular church-goers.
Despite growing public unrest, House Minority Leader John Boehner (R-Ohio) asked rhetorically whether we should have this debate “in the middle of two wars” and “this giant security threat.”
I’m thinking yes.
This policy has led to the discharge of more than 13,000 troops, including decorated war veterans and highly trained Arab linguists, and has cost the U.S. more than half a billion dollars. A country in the middle of two wars has no business turning away thousands who want to serve, and a country in serious economic trouble shouldn’t be spending obscene amounts of money chasing down gays.
Republicans who oppose the repeal should remember their promises to fight the growth of government and promote liberty. I don’t understand how any conservative could support policies that enter into the realm of an adult’s sexuality.
Barry Goldwater, who opposed DADT in 1993, said it best: “Government
governs best when it governs least — and stays out of the impossible task of legislating morality.”
He added, “When you get down to it, no American able to serve should be allowed, much less given an excuse, not to.”
Ashley Reynolds is a political science senior.
11 comments
With all due respect, the majority of Americans DO have a big say in what happens within the military. At least they should. Fundamental to our country - and something the founders were very proud of - is the fact that the American taxpayer is the boss of every government employee, from a soldier up to the President. The taxpayers pay for the military.