Equal Rights
The base idea of pro-LGBTQ+ movements is the fact that “Sexual orientation and gender identity are integral aspects of ourselves and should never lead to discrimination or abuse” (Human Rights Watch). Discrimination and persecution would be just like other hate crimes directed at other groups such as racial minorities and women. No matter who you love or what you identify as you should have equal rights because it is just part of who you are. These rights can include the right to marry, protection against discrimination in all aspects of life including the workforce, the right to gender reassignment surgery and so on.
Serving in the Military
Supporters of LGBTQ+ military service believe that being open LGBTQ+ does not hurt the military. In fact, discharge due to coming out can harm military effectiveness and numbers. LGBTQ+ members have been serving in the military for countless wars and sexual orientation and gender identity do not influence unit cohesion or military strength. “‘ The Defense Department must allow transgender people to serve openly,”’ said Darlene Nipper, deputy executive director of the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force. “’ It’s wrong that these brave men and women — who sacrifice so much through their service to our nation — should have to fight for their rights both as active military and then as veterans.”’
Many also believe anti-LGBTQ+ bans are costly financially and mentally. It takes money to investigate then discharge people and that is no different from the DADT policy. The”financial cost associated with the DADT policy implementation was much higher than previously estimated, i.e. at least $364 million during its first decade (Blue Ribbon Commission Report, 2006).” Emotionally, bans on LGBTQ+ in the military harm the mental wellbeing of LGBTQ+ members. Having to hide their identity and feeling persecuted causes trama. LGBTQ+ Veterans of Vietnam show how the combination of hiding sexual orientation and gender identity combined with the terrors of was can affect a service member.
The stress LGBTQ+ face harms the military because it’s service members are harmed. By repealing bans mental health would become better and medical expenses on medical health for LGBTQ+ could decrease. These bans also do not support inclusiveness. It separates LGBTQ+ and prevents acceptance and toleration of all people in the military.
Evidence and reports done show that Transgender in the military does not negatively impact medical expenses. In a report done in 2016, There were “an estimated 163,000 transgender veterans in the United States”(Downing). This is about 0.5 of American military service members. “Transgender veterans were more likely to have at least one disability compared to cisgender veterans, but no other significant differences were observed”(Downing). Another study found the “DADT repeal has had no overall negative impact on military readiness or its component dimensions, including cohesion, recruitment, retention, assaults, harassment, or morale. If anything, DADT repeal appears to have enhanced the military’s ability to pursue its mission”(Belkin).
Generally, those supporting LGBTQ+ in the military can see this social issue from a feminist perspective. This perspective views social issues based on the power difference between men and women due to gender roles in society. This perspective also includes other categories like race, nationality, and economic status. One can easily see how the difference in how LGBTQ+ and women are viewed in society at large affects their power and acceptance in the military.
Some Pro-LGBTQ+ organizations include:
GLAAD uses multiple tools such as the new, social media platforms, and entertainment to boost acceptance of LGBTQ+
Trevor Project was founded for suicide prevention and protection of LGBTQ+ youths who are disproportionally affected by mental health issues such as depression.
The Modern Military Association is the nation’s largest non-profit organization helping LGBTQ+ veterans receive equal and fair treatment.