This tour is an amazing opportunity to meet some of the courageous individuals that have served tirelessly on behalf of their country. All of these soldiers have a different story. Some, like Julie Mendoza, have served this nation on three different continents. Others, like Eric Alva, have been seriously injured in the defense of our freedoms. However, all of them, whether gay or straight, are calling on us as citizens to repeal DADT.
Since the election of Barack Obama, those who have opposed his agenda have consistently echoed the same message. They have said that "there is too much going on" and we simply "can't afford another distraction from the economy", all the while doing nothing to solve the issues confronting Americans. Nothing could be further from the truth. They would have people believe that all problems in America are entirely separate and comprehensive action should not be taken. They argue that allowing openly gay men and women to serve is too much change too quickly. However, it is important to remember that President Harry Truman made the decision to integrate the U.S. Armed Forces in 1948 at a time when American had just ended its involvement in the greatest military conflict ever and was preparing to fight the Cold War by engaging North Korea. I do not recall any claims that this adversely impacted troop morale.
The voices that oppose progress in modern American politics do so through fear of the unknown. They assert that somehow allowing equality in the Armed Forces will weaken the readiness of our soldiers and threaten our national security. However, there is simply no evidence for this. Ending employment discrimination does not weaken our economy; it ensures that the value of an employee in America is dependent on the work of that individual. Ending social discrimination does not weaken our families; it ensures that there are willing parents for orphaned children and strong communities across this country.
Each day that passes without the repeal of "Don't ask, don't tell" is one more day where many of America's best are not allowed to serve their country with the dignity and humanity that their sacrifice merits. I am sure we all sincerely wish that this was not a partisan issue. I hope that soon the opponents of DADT realize that their position blatantly conflicts with thier supposed ideals of national defense and civil liberty. However, this is simply not the case. I am glad to be a member of a party that recognizes the substantial need for change and is brave enough to stand for this principle. President Obama has indicated that he would support the repeal of DADT if their was a bill from the Congress. Now is the time to ensure that not another day is wasted.
Please come out to the Voices of Honor events soon. The event in Arlington is on 5/4/2010 at 7 PM. The location is 4301 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA 22203. If you have any questions, feel free to contact myself (richa2dj@jmu.edu) or president@arlingtonyoungdems.org .
