Couple featured in latest online video released by SLDN, Freedom To Marry
(Washington, DC) – Freedom To Marry and Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN) today released a new online video featuring Army Captain Stephen Hill and his husband, Joshua Snyder, spotlighting the inequalities forced upon gay and lesbian service members by the so-called Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA). Hill - who drew national support when he was booed during a Republican presidential debate after asking a question via video regarding repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" (DADT) - recently returned from a deployment to the Middle East.
"Steve's deployment brought home to us the stark realities that gay and lesbian families face because of the Defense of Marriage Act. If something happened to me, Steve would not have been able to take emergency leave, because the military cannot recognize our relationship. If something terrible happened to him, I would not be considered the next-of-kin. Service members and their families making the kind of sacrifices that are required to serve this country shouldn't be treated as second-class citizens and their marriages shouldn’t be treated as second-class marriages,” said Snyder.
Hill and Snyder are also plaintiffs in landmark litigation filed in October 2011 by SLDN on behalf of eight married gay and lesbian service members and veterans challenging DOMA and other federal statutes that are being used to prevent the military from providing the same protections and support to all families.
"This lawsuit is about one thing, plain and simple. It's about equal recognition, respect, and support for all service members and their families who put their lives on the line to protect our freedoms," said Army veteran and SLDN Executive Director Aubrey Sarvis.
The video released today is the latest piece of the new Freedom to Serve, Freedom to Marry national campaign highlighting the stories of military families harmed by DOMA. In addition, SLDN and Freedom to Marry have launched a petition calling on Congress to end marriage discrimination against service members and veterans. The petition builds support for repealing so-called Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) and passing the Respect for Marriage Act.
“Gay and lesbian service members put their lives on the line every day to ensure the safety of Americans back home, even while the federal government continues to deny their marriages respect and their families the protections marriage brings,” said Evan Wolfson, founder and President of Freedom To Marry. “It is time to repeal the so-called Defense of Marriage Act and do right by all American families, including those serving our country.”
Because of the ‘gay exception’ created by DOMA, America’s legally married gay and lesbian couples are denied more than 1,100 federal responsibilities and protections, including access to military insurance programs, Social Security survivors benefits, equal treatment under U.S. immigration laws, and the opportunity to take leave to care for a spouse.
Freedom To Marry's federal program works to repeal the so-called Defense of Marriage Act and make the case for marriage to government officials, opinion-leaders, and political operatives in Washington, DC. Freedom To Marry jointly leads the Respect for Marriage Coalition, a diverse group of nearly 75 organizations working together to repeal DOMA. Since the introduction of the Respect for Marriage Act, the number of cosponsors has increased from 18 to 32 in the Senate, including every Democratic member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and from 108 to 147 in the House of Representatives.
For more information on Freedom to Serve, Freedom to Marry, visit www.freedomtomarry.org/serve.
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ABOUT FREEDOM TO MARRY: Freedom To Marry is the campaign to win marriage nationwide. We are pursuing our Roadmap to Victory by working to win the freedom to marry in more states, grow the national majority for marriage, and end federal marriage discrimination. We partner with individuals and organizations across the country to end the exclusion of same-sex couples from marriage and the protections, responsibilities, and commitment that marriage brings.
ABOUT SLDN: Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN) is a non-partisan, non-profit, legal services and policy organization dedicated to bringing about full LGBT equality to America's military and ending all forms of discrimination and harassment of military personnel on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. SLDN provides free and direct legal assistance to service members and veterans affected by the repealed "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" law and the prior regulatory ban on open service, as well as those currently serving who may experience harassment or discrimination. Since 1993, our in-house legal team has responded to more than 11,500 requests for assistance. Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender service members with questions are urged to contact the SLDN hotline to speak with a staff attorney: Call 1-800-538-7418 or 202-328-3244 x100.
Sunday, July 1, 2012
Saturday, June 30, 2012
New OutServe-SLDN Launches Search for Executive Director
(WASHINGTON, D.C.)Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN) and OutServe today announced the search process for an Executive Director, who will lead the new organization, OutServe-SLDN, upon completion of the combination of the two organizations. The executive search firm, McCormack & Associates of Palm Springs, CA, has been retained to manage the national recruitment process in collaboration with a designated search committee of the two existing boards. The search for an executive director for SLDN, launched earlier this year, was dramatically changed when the boards of OutServe and SLDN voted to combine at their July 2012 board meetings.
"The search for the first person to lead this newly combined organization comes at a critical moment in the fight for full LGBT equality in our armed forces. That fight marches forward - including for those legally married gay and lesbian service members who today do not receive the same recognition, support or benefits for their families as their straight, married peers. We will not rest until we overcome existing inequities and ensure full LGBT equality in the military," said SLDN Board Co-Chair April Heinze, who is on the search committee.
The position of Executive Director of OutServe-SLDN provides a unique professional opportunity to lead a newly formed, national LGBT military organization seeking and ensuring full equality for LGBT service members, veterans, and their families. He or she will manage ongoing legal and legislative efforts to dismantle federal laws - including the so-called Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) - which prevent the military from treating all service members, veterans, and their families equally. He or she will oversee pro bono legal services for LGBT service members, work with the Department of Defense and congressional leaders for effective implementation of open service, and work to address any harassment or discrimination related to sexual orientation or gender identity that may occur.
Additionally, the leader will oversee building a new infrastructure to grow the existing OutServe membership and chapter structure as the organization expands its role as a place for LGBT service members and veterans to connect through professional association. The new Executive Director will champion work for full equality on behalf of the nation's gay and lesbian service members in the media, in communities across the U.S., and with stakeholders at every level, including at the White House, on Capitol Hill, and at the Pentagon. He or she will also lead OutServe-SLDN's ongoing advocacy for transgender military service.
"In light of the combination of OutServe and SLDN, we wanted to launch the search anew in order to attract the best and brightest individuals to lead the way at an unprecedented time for LGBT service members. The first Executive Director of OutServe-SLDN has a great challenge in front of him or her - but also a great opportunity to finish the job we started with the repeal of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' and build an organization that will endure as a place for LGBT service members to go for support, information, connectivity, and growth," said Josh Seefried, co-director of OutServe, who is on the search committee.
Aubrey Sarvis, the current SLDN Executive Director, has agreed to remain until a new leader is announced. Click here for the job description and instructions for applying.
ABOUT SLDN: Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN) is a non-partisan, non-profit, legal services and policy organization dedicated to bringing about full LGBT equality to America's military and ending all forms of discrimination and harassment of military personnel on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. SLDN provides free and direct legal assistance to service members and veterans affected by the repealed "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" law and the prior regulatory ban on open service, as well as those currently serving. Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender service members with questions are urged to contact the SLDN hotline to speak with a staff attorney: Call 1-800-538-7418 or 202-328-3244 x100.
ABOUT OUTSERVE: OutServe is the association of actively-serving LGBT military personnel. With more than 5,500 members and 50+ chapters worldwide, it is one of the largest LGBT employee resource groups in the world. OutServe works to support a professional network of LGBT military personnel and create an environment of respect in the military with regard to sexual orientation and gender identity.
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Zeke Stokes | Communications Director | Servicemembers Legal Defense Network | Post Office Box 65301 | Washington, D.C. 20035 | 202.621.5406 direct | 202.834.9048 mobile
"The search for the first person to lead this newly combined organization comes at a critical moment in the fight for full LGBT equality in our armed forces. That fight marches forward - including for those legally married gay and lesbian service members who today do not receive the same recognition, support or benefits for their families as their straight, married peers. We will not rest until we overcome existing inequities and ensure full LGBT equality in the military," said SLDN Board Co-Chair April Heinze, who is on the search committee.
The position of Executive Director of OutServe-SLDN provides a unique professional opportunity to lead a newly formed, national LGBT military organization seeking and ensuring full equality for LGBT service members, veterans, and their families. He or she will manage ongoing legal and legislative efforts to dismantle federal laws - including the so-called Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) - which prevent the military from treating all service members, veterans, and their families equally. He or she will oversee pro bono legal services for LGBT service members, work with the Department of Defense and congressional leaders for effective implementation of open service, and work to address any harassment or discrimination related to sexual orientation or gender identity that may occur.
Additionally, the leader will oversee building a new infrastructure to grow the existing OutServe membership and chapter structure as the organization expands its role as a place for LGBT service members and veterans to connect through professional association. The new Executive Director will champion work for full equality on behalf of the nation's gay and lesbian service members in the media, in communities across the U.S., and with stakeholders at every level, including at the White House, on Capitol Hill, and at the Pentagon. He or she will also lead OutServe-SLDN's ongoing advocacy for transgender military service.
"In light of the combination of OutServe and SLDN, we wanted to launch the search anew in order to attract the best and brightest individuals to lead the way at an unprecedented time for LGBT service members. The first Executive Director of OutServe-SLDN has a great challenge in front of him or her - but also a great opportunity to finish the job we started with the repeal of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' and build an organization that will endure as a place for LGBT service members to go for support, information, connectivity, and growth," said Josh Seefried, co-director of OutServe, who is on the search committee.
Aubrey Sarvis, the current SLDN Executive Director, has agreed to remain until a new leader is announced. Click here for the job description and instructions for applying.
ABOUT SLDN: Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN) is a non-partisan, non-profit, legal services and policy organization dedicated to bringing about full LGBT equality to America's military and ending all forms of discrimination and harassment of military personnel on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. SLDN provides free and direct legal assistance to service members and veterans affected by the repealed "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" law and the prior regulatory ban on open service, as well as those currently serving. Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender service members with questions are urged to contact the SLDN hotline to speak with a staff attorney: Call 1-800-538-7418 or 202-328-3244 x100.
ABOUT OUTSERVE: OutServe is the association of actively-serving LGBT military personnel. With more than 5,500 members and 50+ chapters worldwide, it is one of the largest LGBT employee resource groups in the world. OutServe works to support a professional network of LGBT military personnel and create an environment of respect in the military with regard to sexual orientation and gender identity.
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Zeke Stokes | Communications Director | Servicemembers Legal Defense Network | Post Office Box 65301 | Washington, D.C. 20035 | 202.621.5406 direct | 202.834.9048 mobile
Thursday, June 28, 2012
SLDN Praises Congressional Bill to Extend Benefits and Support to All Military Spouses
Military Spouses Equal Treatment Act Introduced by HASC Ranking Member Adam Smith (D-WA)
(Washington, DC) Army Veteran and Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN) Executive Director Aubrey Sarvis today applauded the introduction of HR 6046, the Military Spouses Equal Treatment Act of 2012 (MSET) that would change the definition of "spouse" in four areas of U.S. Code related to recognition, support, and benefits for married service members and veterans. The changes - including Titles 10, 32, and 38 that are challenged in SLDN's landmark litigation, McLaughlin v. U.S., filed in October 2011 - would ensure that spouses of the same gender are eligible for key military benefits.
"Our nation's senior military leaders and commanders on the ground are increasingly uncomfortable with administering two classes of recognition, support and benefits for our nation's service members - one for straight service members and a different one for their gay and lesbian peers. There cannot be two classes of service members, and this legislation addresses that effectively," said Sarvis.
In his remarks at the Pentagon on Tuesday, Department of Defense General Counsel Jeh Johnson referenced the growing awareness of this disparity among leadership in the armed forces.
"The repeal of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' exposes certain inequalities between similarly situated couples in the military community. This troubles many of our leaders," said Johnson.
In addition to the titles challenged by SLDN's court case, the bill - introduced by House Armed Services Committee Ranking Member Adam Smith (D-WA) - also adds a favorable controlling definition of "spouse" to Title 37 to provide greater uniformity of benefits for same-sex spouses. Taken together, MSET would extend dozens of important spousal benefits and support programs to same-gender spouses, including coverage under TriCare insurance, an increased housing allowance, and survivor benefits.
"Ranking Member Smith has recognized with the introduction of this legislation today that 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' repeal - while a monumental achievement for gay and lesbian service members and all Americans - does not finish the job of ensuring full equality for these brave patriots and their families. We thank him for his leadership and urge his colleagues in both parties and in both houses of Congress to join him and us in this important fight," said Sarvis.
Sarvis said he expects a companion bill to be introduced soon in the U.S. Senate and that SLDN, working with allies, will seek to gain co-sponsors for the legislation in both bodies.
"Just as SLDN did in the fight to repeal 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell,' we are now engaged in a two-front campaign to gain full equality for service members, veterans, and their spouses in the courts and on Capitol Hill. This bill - just like our case before the courts - is about justice for gay and lesbian military families providing the same service, taking the same risks, and making the same sacrifices for our country as their straight, married peers. The military should not be forced to turn its back on them because the federal government does not recognize their marriages," said Sarvis.
ABOUT SLDN: Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN) is a non-partisan, non-profit, legal services and policy organization dedicated to bringing about full LGBT equality to America's military and ending all forms of discrimination and harassment of military personnel on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. SLDN provides free and direct legal assistance to service members and veterans affected by the repealed "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" law and the prior regulatory ban on open service, as well as those currently serving who may experience harassment or discrimination. Since 1993, our in-house legal team has responded to more than 11,500 requests for assistance. To learn more, visit www.sldn.org. Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender service members with questions are urged to contact the SLDN hotline to speak with a staff attorney: Call 1-800-538-7418 or 202-328-3244 x100.
(Washington, DC) Army Veteran and Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN) Executive Director Aubrey Sarvis today applauded the introduction of HR 6046, the Military Spouses Equal Treatment Act of 2012 (MSET) that would change the definition of "spouse" in four areas of U.S. Code related to recognition, support, and benefits for married service members and veterans. The changes - including Titles 10, 32, and 38 that are challenged in SLDN's landmark litigation, McLaughlin v. U.S., filed in October 2011 - would ensure that spouses of the same gender are eligible for key military benefits.
"Our nation's senior military leaders and commanders on the ground are increasingly uncomfortable with administering two classes of recognition, support and benefits for our nation's service members - one for straight service members and a different one for their gay and lesbian peers. There cannot be two classes of service members, and this legislation addresses that effectively," said Sarvis.
In his remarks at the Pentagon on Tuesday, Department of Defense General Counsel Jeh Johnson referenced the growing awareness of this disparity among leadership in the armed forces.
"The repeal of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' exposes certain inequalities between similarly situated couples in the military community. This troubles many of our leaders," said Johnson.
In addition to the titles challenged by SLDN's court case, the bill - introduced by House Armed Services Committee Ranking Member Adam Smith (D-WA) - also adds a favorable controlling definition of "spouse" to Title 37 to provide greater uniformity of benefits for same-sex spouses. Taken together, MSET would extend dozens of important spousal benefits and support programs to same-gender spouses, including coverage under TriCare insurance, an increased housing allowance, and survivor benefits.
"Ranking Member Smith has recognized with the introduction of this legislation today that 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' repeal - while a monumental achievement for gay and lesbian service members and all Americans - does not finish the job of ensuring full equality for these brave patriots and their families. We thank him for his leadership and urge his colleagues in both parties and in both houses of Congress to join him and us in this important fight," said Sarvis.
Sarvis said he expects a companion bill to be introduced soon in the U.S. Senate and that SLDN, working with allies, will seek to gain co-sponsors for the legislation in both bodies.
"Just as SLDN did in the fight to repeal 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell,' we are now engaged in a two-front campaign to gain full equality for service members, veterans, and their spouses in the courts and on Capitol Hill. This bill - just like our case before the courts - is about justice for gay and lesbian military families providing the same service, taking the same risks, and making the same sacrifices for our country as their straight, married peers. The military should not be forced to turn its back on them because the federal government does not recognize their marriages," said Sarvis.
ABOUT SLDN: Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN) is a non-partisan, non-profit, legal services and policy organization dedicated to bringing about full LGBT equality to America's military and ending all forms of discrimination and harassment of military personnel on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. SLDN provides free and direct legal assistance to service members and veterans affected by the repealed "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" law and the prior regulatory ban on open service, as well as those currently serving who may experience harassment or discrimination. Since 1993, our in-house legal team has responded to more than 11,500 requests for assistance. To learn more, visit www.sldn.org. Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender service members with questions are urged to contact the SLDN hotline to speak with a staff attorney: Call 1-800-538-7418 or 202-328-3244 x100.
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Mullen to Headline Military Tribute Marking One Year Anniversary of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” Repeal
UBS, Verizon, BNY Mellon Announced as Inaugural Sponsors of Historic
New York City Event Honoring Service Members and Veterans
(New York, NY) Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN) today announced UBS, Verizon, and BNY Mellon as the inaugural sponsors of a tribute to former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Admiral Mike Mullen, who will headline the celebration aboard the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum in New York City to mark the one-year anniversary of the repeal of the discriminatory "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" law. The event - "Celebrating OurHeroes" - will take place on Tuesday, September 18, 2012, and will be the first in a series of high profile events hosted by SLDN across the country during the week to commemorate the first year of open service by America's gay and lesbian service members. The anniversary of repeal is September 20.
"This historic and emotional event presents a unique – indeed, a once in a lifetime – opportunity to reinforce the meaningful part that Admiral Mullen played in the 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' repeal process. No one played a more pivotal role than Admiral Mullen in securing the support of Congress and the military for repeal," said Army Veteran and SLDN Executive Director Aubrey Sarvis.
Members of Congress and observers alike sat transfixed as he testified before the Senate Armed Services Committee on February 2, 2010, at the height of the repeal fight, saying:
"No matter how I look at the issue, I cannot escape being troubled by the fact that we have in place a policy which forces young men and women to lie about who they are in order to defend their fellow citizens. For me, it comes down to integrity – theirs as individuals and ours as an institution."
"We thank our inaugural sponsors - UBS, Verizon, and BNY Mellon - for their strong commitment to equality in our nation's military and for their generous support for all service members and veterans. Admiral Mullen represents the very best American values - integrity, commitment, and service. We are proud to see these employers aligned with him today and demonstrating a deep commitment to full LGBT equality in this country," said Sarvis.
The New York City tribute on September 18 will begin with a VIP reception at 5:30 p.m. The general admission event will begin at 6:30 p.m. and will conclude at 9:30 p.m.
For more information, to sponsor the event, or to purchase tickets, visit www.sldn.org/intrepid2012.
ABOUT SLDN: Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN) is a non-partisan, non-profit, legal services and policy organization dedicated to bringing about full LGBT equality to America's military and ending all forms of discrimination and harassment of military personnel on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. SLDN provides free and direct legal assistance to service members and veterans affected by the repealed "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" law and the prior regulatory ban on open service, as well as those currently serving who may experience harassment or discrimination. Since 1993, our in-house legal team has responded to more than 11,500 requests for assistance. To learn more, visit www.sldn.org. Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender service members with questions are urged to contact the SLDN hotline to speak with a staff attorney: Call 1-800-538-7418 or 202-328-3244 x100.
New York City Event Honoring Service Members and Veterans
(New York, NY) Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN) today announced UBS, Verizon, and BNY Mellon as the inaugural sponsors of a tribute to former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Admiral Mike Mullen, who will headline the celebration aboard the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum in New York City to mark the one-year anniversary of the repeal of the discriminatory "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" law. The event - "Celebrating OurHeroes" - will take place on Tuesday, September 18, 2012, and will be the first in a series of high profile events hosted by SLDN across the country during the week to commemorate the first year of open service by America's gay and lesbian service members. The anniversary of repeal is September 20.
"This historic and emotional event presents a unique – indeed, a once in a lifetime – opportunity to reinforce the meaningful part that Admiral Mullen played in the 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' repeal process. No one played a more pivotal role than Admiral Mullen in securing the support of Congress and the military for repeal," said Army Veteran and SLDN Executive Director Aubrey Sarvis.
Members of Congress and observers alike sat transfixed as he testified before the Senate Armed Services Committee on February 2, 2010, at the height of the repeal fight, saying:
"No matter how I look at the issue, I cannot escape being troubled by the fact that we have in place a policy which forces young men and women to lie about who they are in order to defend their fellow citizens. For me, it comes down to integrity – theirs as individuals and ours as an institution."
"We thank our inaugural sponsors - UBS, Verizon, and BNY Mellon - for their strong commitment to equality in our nation's military and for their generous support for all service members and veterans. Admiral Mullen represents the very best American values - integrity, commitment, and service. We are proud to see these employers aligned with him today and demonstrating a deep commitment to full LGBT equality in this country," said Sarvis.
The New York City tribute on September 18 will begin with a VIP reception at 5:30 p.m. The general admission event will begin at 6:30 p.m. and will conclude at 9:30 p.m.
For more information, to sponsor the event, or to purchase tickets, visit www.sldn.org/intrepid2012.
ABOUT SLDN: Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN) is a non-partisan, non-profit, legal services and policy organization dedicated to bringing about full LGBT equality to America's military and ending all forms of discrimination and harassment of military personnel on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. SLDN provides free and direct legal assistance to service members and veterans affected by the repealed "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" law and the prior regulatory ban on open service, as well as those currently serving who may experience harassment or discrimination. Since 1993, our in-house legal team has responded to more than 11,500 requests for assistance. To learn more, visit www.sldn.org. Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender service members with questions are urged to contact the SLDN hotline to speak with a staff attorney: Call 1-800-538-7418 or 202-328-3244 x100.
Thursday, May 31, 2012
30 Days of Pride!
SLDN launches month-long initiative profiling those
making a difference today in the fight for full LGBT military equality
(Washington, DC) Servicemembers Legal Defense Network today launched a month-long campaign, 30 Days of Pride, that will profile individuals and organizations making a difference today in the fight for full LGBT military equality. The campaign will feature a new profile per day throughout the month of June - LGBT Pride Month - and begins June 1 by spotlighting the plaintiffs in SLDN's landmark litigation, McLaughlin v. U.S. The lawsuit, filed in October 2011, challenges the so-called Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) and three other federal statutes that may be interpreted to preclude the military from providing equal recognition, support, and benefits to the families of gay and lesbian service members and veterans.
"The McLaughlin plaintiffs are trailblazers in the fight for full LGBT equality for all service members, veterans, and their families, and we are pleased to kickoff this Pride month celebration by highlighting their heroic fight in the courts. These couples are in long term, committed, and legally recognized marriages, and the military should not be forced to turn its back on them because the federal government refuses to recognize their marriages," said Army Veteran and SLDN Executive Director Aubrey Sarvis.
Together, the plaintiffs represent 159 years of military service; serve in the Army, Air Force, Navy and National Guard; and as couples, have been together for a total of 79 years.
In addition to posting a new profile each day, SLDN will be on the road at LGBT Pride celebrations across the U.S. throughout the month of June. These include Honolulu, Boston, Denver, New Orleans, and New York City. For a complete listing, click here.
ABOUT SLDN: Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN) is a non-partisan, non-profit, legal services and policy organization dedicated to bringing about full LGBT equality to America's military and ending all forms of discrimination and harassment of military personnel on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. SLDN provides free and direct legal assistance to service members and veterans affected by the repealed "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" law and the prior regulatory ban on open service, as well as those currently serving who may experience harassment or discrimination. Since 1993, our in-house legal team has responded to more than 11,500 requests for assistance. To learn more, visit www.sldn.org. Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender service members with questions are urged to contact the SLDN hotline to speak with a staff attorney: Call 1-800-538-7418 or 202-328-3244 x100.
making a difference today in the fight for full LGBT military equality
(Washington, DC) Servicemembers Legal Defense Network today launched a month-long campaign, 30 Days of Pride, that will profile individuals and organizations making a difference today in the fight for full LGBT military equality. The campaign will feature a new profile per day throughout the month of June - LGBT Pride Month - and begins June 1 by spotlighting the plaintiffs in SLDN's landmark litigation, McLaughlin v. U.S. The lawsuit, filed in October 2011, challenges the so-called Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) and three other federal statutes that may be interpreted to preclude the military from providing equal recognition, support, and benefits to the families of gay and lesbian service members and veterans.
"The McLaughlin plaintiffs are trailblazers in the fight for full LGBT equality for all service members, veterans, and their families, and we are pleased to kickoff this Pride month celebration by highlighting their heroic fight in the courts. These couples are in long term, committed, and legally recognized marriages, and the military should not be forced to turn its back on them because the federal government refuses to recognize their marriages," said Army Veteran and SLDN Executive Director Aubrey Sarvis.
Together, the plaintiffs represent 159 years of military service; serve in the Army, Air Force, Navy and National Guard; and as couples, have been together for a total of 79 years.
In addition to posting a new profile each day, SLDN will be on the road at LGBT Pride celebrations across the U.S. throughout the month of June. These include Honolulu, Boston, Denver, New Orleans, and New York City. For a complete listing, click here.
ABOUT SLDN: Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN) is a non-partisan, non-profit, legal services and policy organization dedicated to bringing about full LGBT equality to America's military and ending all forms of discrimination and harassment of military personnel on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. SLDN provides free and direct legal assistance to service members and veterans affected by the repealed "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" law and the prior regulatory ban on open service, as well as those currently serving who may experience harassment or discrimination. Since 1993, our in-house legal team has responded to more than 11,500 requests for assistance. To learn more, visit www.sldn.org. Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender service members with questions are urged to contact the SLDN hotline to speak with a staff attorney: Call 1-800-538-7418 or 202-328-3244 x100.
DOMA Again Ruled Unconstitutional by U.S. Courts
Sarvis: This victory further paves the way for equality for gay and lesbian service members and their families
(Washington, DC) Army Veteran and Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN) Executive Director Aubrey Sarvis applauded a decision by the First Circuit Court of Appeals, which today ruled the so-called Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) unconstitutional.
"At SLDN, we applaud the court for affirming that legal marriages in the states - and all the rights and protections that come with those marriages - should be recognized and respected by our federal government. Though a narrow decision, this important victory nonetheless paves the way further for litigation like McLaughlin v. U.S., SLDN's case on behalf of married gay and lesbian service members and veterans who are denied equal recognition, support and benefits for their families by this discriminatory law. We congratulate the GLAD attorneys and plaintiffs in this case and look forward with them to the day when every American - especially those putting their lives on the line to protect our nation - has the freedom to marry the person they love, knowing that their commitment will be honored by their government," said Sarvis.
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ABOUT SLDN: Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN) is a non-partisan, non-profit, legal services and policy organization dedicated to bringing about full LGBT equality to America's military and ending all forms of discrimination and harassment of military personnel on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. SLDN provides free and direct legal assistance to service members and veterans affected by the repealed "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" law and the prior regulatory ban on open service, as well as those currently serving who may experience harassment or discrimination. Since 1993, our in-house legal team has responded to more than 11,500 requests for assistance. To learn more, visit www.sldn.org. Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender service members with questions are urged to contact the SLDN hotline to speak with a staff attorney: Call 1-800-538-7418 or 202-328-3244 x100.
(Washington, DC) Army Veteran and Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN) Executive Director Aubrey Sarvis applauded a decision by the First Circuit Court of Appeals, which today ruled the so-called Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) unconstitutional.
"At SLDN, we applaud the court for affirming that legal marriages in the states - and all the rights and protections that come with those marriages - should be recognized and respected by our federal government. Though a narrow decision, this important victory nonetheless paves the way further for litigation like McLaughlin v. U.S., SLDN's case on behalf of married gay and lesbian service members and veterans who are denied equal recognition, support and benefits for their families by this discriminatory law. We congratulate the GLAD attorneys and plaintiffs in this case and look forward with them to the day when every American - especially those putting their lives on the line to protect our nation - has the freedom to marry the person they love, knowing that their commitment will be honored by their government," said Sarvis.
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ABOUT SLDN: Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN) is a non-partisan, non-profit, legal services and policy organization dedicated to bringing about full LGBT equality to America's military and ending all forms of discrimination and harassment of military personnel on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. SLDN provides free and direct legal assistance to service members and veterans affected by the repealed "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" law and the prior regulatory ban on open service, as well as those currently serving who may experience harassment or discrimination. Since 1993, our in-house legal team has responded to more than 11,500 requests for assistance. To learn more, visit www.sldn.org. Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender service members with questions are urged to contact the SLDN hotline to speak with a staff attorney: Call 1-800-538-7418 or 202-328-3244 x100.
Thursday, May 24, 2012
Senate Committee Passes NDAA Without Harmful LGBT Provisions
(WASHINGTON, DC) Today, the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) passed its annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) without the adoption of harmful amendments that are included in the House version of the bill seeking to limit the use of Department of Defense facilities, affect military chaplains, and undermine successful "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" repeal implementation. Army veteran and SLDN Executive Director Aubrey Sarvis praised Republican and Democratic lawmakers in the Senate for keeping these provisions out of the annual defense spending bill.
"SLDN and our allies have been working on Capitol Hill this year to encourage the Senate Armed Services Committee to pass a common-sense defense spending bill that does not seek to turn the clock back on the progress we have made in this first year of implementation of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' repeal. We now turn our attention to making sure the full Senate passes the committee bill and that the harmful language included in the House version is stripped away in conference committee," said Sarvis.
The House passed its version of the NDAA on May 18 and included two harmful amendments put forth by opponents of LGBT military equality. The first would give so-called "conscience protections" to chaplains and service members who do not wish to minister and work with gay and lesbian service members. A threat to military readiness and unit cohesion, this amendment would allow service members to actively harass their fellow comrades for their perceived or actual sexual orientation. It would allow chaplains to discriminate against service members by religion, gender, sexual orientation, race, or any other religious belief simply by arguing that ministering to them would be contrary to their "conscience, moral principles, or religious beliefs."
A second amendment adopted to the House version of the bill would limit the use of Department of Defense property for same-gender marriage ceremonies.
“The Department of Defense has already made it clear - and appropriately so - that decisions about the use of facilities should be made on a sexual orientation neutral basis. This is yet another attempt by a few opponents of military equality who are looking to turn the clock back on progress and relegate gay and lesbian service members to second-class status,” said Sarvis.
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ABOUT SLDN: Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN) is a non-partisan, non-profit, legal services and policy organization dedicated to bringing about full LGBT equality to America's military and ending all forms of discrimination and harassment of military personnel on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. SLDN provides free and direct legal assistance to service members and veterans affected by the repealed "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" law and the prior regulatory ban on open service, as well as those currently serving who may experience harassment or discrimination. Since 1993, our in-house legal team has responded to more than 11,000 requests for assistance. To learn more, visit www.sldn.org.
SLDN FREE HOTLINE: Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender service members with questions are urged to contact the SLDN hotline to speak with a staff attorney: Call 1-800-538-7418 or 202-328-3244 x100.
"SLDN and our allies have been working on Capitol Hill this year to encourage the Senate Armed Services Committee to pass a common-sense defense spending bill that does not seek to turn the clock back on the progress we have made in this first year of implementation of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' repeal. We now turn our attention to making sure the full Senate passes the committee bill and that the harmful language included in the House version is stripped away in conference committee," said Sarvis.
The House passed its version of the NDAA on May 18 and included two harmful amendments put forth by opponents of LGBT military equality. The first would give so-called "conscience protections" to chaplains and service members who do not wish to minister and work with gay and lesbian service members. A threat to military readiness and unit cohesion, this amendment would allow service members to actively harass their fellow comrades for their perceived or actual sexual orientation. It would allow chaplains to discriminate against service members by religion, gender, sexual orientation, race, or any other religious belief simply by arguing that ministering to them would be contrary to their "conscience, moral principles, or religious beliefs."
A second amendment adopted to the House version of the bill would limit the use of Department of Defense property for same-gender marriage ceremonies.
“The Department of Defense has already made it clear - and appropriately so - that decisions about the use of facilities should be made on a sexual orientation neutral basis. This is yet another attempt by a few opponents of military equality who are looking to turn the clock back on progress and relegate gay and lesbian service members to second-class status,” said Sarvis.
###
ABOUT SLDN: Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN) is a non-partisan, non-profit, legal services and policy organization dedicated to bringing about full LGBT equality to America's military and ending all forms of discrimination and harassment of military personnel on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. SLDN provides free and direct legal assistance to service members and veterans affected by the repealed "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" law and the prior regulatory ban on open service, as well as those currently serving who may experience harassment or discrimination. Since 1993, our in-house legal team has responded to more than 11,000 requests for assistance. To learn more, visit www.sldn.org.
SLDN FREE HOTLINE: Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender service members with questions are urged to contact the SLDN hotline to speak with a staff attorney: Call 1-800-538-7418 or 202-328-3244 x100.
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