LGBTQ Veterans Celebrate Progress and Fear Reversal
In a recent Veterans Day ceremony in San Diego, LGBTQ veterans gathered to honor their courage, bravery, and sacrifices on the Wall of Honor at the San Diego LGBT Center. However, the results of the recent election have reignited fears among these veterans about the potential reversal of their hard-fought rights, especially with the reelection of Donald Trump.
Struggles of LGBTQ Veterans Throughout History
The ceremony, reminiscent of traditional Veterans Day events with a Navy color guard, national anthem, and speeches by veterans, brought to light the decades of discrimination and criminalization faced by LGBTQ individuals within the military. Army veteran Robert Granat shared his surprise at being recognized, reflecting on his experiences being drafted into the Army Reserves in 1969 despite hiding his sexuality to avoid persecution.
Granat’s story is just one of many shared by LGBTQ veterans who served in silence, facing the choice between serving reluctantly or risking their careers by revealing their true selves. The struggles of these veterans were not just limited to their own identities but extended to facing sexism and harassment within the military, as recounted by Wall of Honor inductee Pele Crone.
Concerns Over Potential Reversal of Rights
The recent election results have prompted concerns among LGBTQ veterans about the future of their rights, with President-elect Trump expressing disapproval of what he perceives as a “woke” military. California Democratic Congresswoman Sarah Jacobs reassured the community of her commitment to protecting the gains made in recent years, including the end of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell and the transgender ban.
In a final act before leaving office, the Biden Administration proactively upgraded the discharges of veterans affected by Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell, highlighting the ongoing efforts to restore honor and dignity to LGBTQ individuals who served their country. Marine veteran Randye Hedgecoke’s successful petition for a discharge upgrade serves as a testament to the resilience and determination of these veterans in fighting for recognition and equality.
The stories of LGBTQ veterans serve as a reminder of the challenges faced by marginalized communities within the military and the ongoing fight for acceptance and inclusion. As these veterans celebrate their progress, they also remain vigilant in safeguarding their rights and ensuring that their voices are heard and valued.
This article was produced by the American Homefront Project, shedding light on the experiences of LGBTQ veterans and their continued struggles for recognition and acceptance.
