Homosexuals and the U.S. Military: Current Issues
Abstract
In 1993, new laws and regulations pertaining to homosexuals and U.S. military service came into effect reflecting a compromise in policy. This compromise, colloquially referred to as "don't ask, don't tell," holds that the presence in the armed forces of persons who demonstrate a propensity or intent to engage in homosexual acts would create an unacceptable risk to the high standards of morale, good order and discipline, and unit cohesion which are the essence of military capability. Service members are not to be asked about nor allowed to discuss their homosexuality. This compromise notwithstanding, the issue has remained politically contentious. Prior to the 1993 compromise, the number of individuals discharged for homosexuality was generally declining. Since that time, the number of discharges for homosexual conduct has generally increased until recently.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 18, 2008
- Accession Number
- ADA484726
Entities
People
- David F. Burrelli
- Jody Feder
Organizations
- Library of Congress