JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS,Va. –
The
United States Air Force is a distinctive and decisive force due to our
diversity; everyone has unique assets they bring to strengthen our nation.
In
June, the Department of Defense recognizes Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender
service members and civilians for their dedicated service to both the DoD
mission and our nation. The Air Force celebrates Pride Month because it allows
the community to come together and recognize LGBT individual’s outstanding
achievements and contributions locally, nationally and internationally.
The
LGBT community has served and fought for this country, embedded in all branches
of service.
The
history of LGBT rights is extensive. The
Supreme Court accepted the case One, Inc.
v. Olesen in 1958 where the FBI deemed One, Inc., a lesbian, gay and
bisexual publication, obscene.
The
Supreme Court did not agree.
The
LGBT Pride Month can be traced to 1969 when the Stonewall riots took place in
New York City and became a tipping point for the Gay Liberation Movement in the
United States.
In
December 1993, the DoD prohibited the U.S. military from barring applicants
from service based on sexual orientation.
Additionally,
in 2010, the Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell Repeal Act became law, allowing gays,
lesbians and bisexuals to serve openly in the armed forces. Finally, on 8 Jun
15, DoD Directive 1020.02E was published to provide direction to ensure all
service members are afforded equal opportunity in an environment free from
harassment and unlawful discrimination, adding sexual orientation. In 2016,
gender identity was included in the publication. The work for inclusion has come a long way,
but is far from complete.
The
LGBT community has shown a vast amount of courage in which individuals should all
take pride in for making our nation great. Let us celebrate their achievements
that helped shape our country.
Local
resources include organizations such as lgbtlifecenter.org, which provide testing
and wellness, transportation and housing assistance for the LGBT community. Although not endorsed by Joint Base
Langley-Eustis or the DoD, local events you can attend advertised on hamptonroadspride.org:
28
Jun: Hampton Roads Pride 2018 7th Annual Block Party
30
Jun: Hampton Roads Pride 2018 Pridefest