The Repeal of DADT

Don't Ask, Don't Tell. The staple for the military's views on homosexual soldiers and service men/women. It pretty much said, "Don't tell me if you're gay, because then you get a dishonorable discharge." Throughout the years we developed a tendency to ignore the existence of homosexuality in the military because of that. But now, as it has been brought to light, it has finally been deemed unconstitutional. Effective 9/20/2011, gay and lesbian soldiers will be admitted to the military and allowed to practice their sexuality openly. What does this mean?

For the military, it means that social barriers will be going up and down in a frenzy. I'm certain that we'll see a series of small explosions resulting from the more (irreversibly) ignorant soldiers finding out that a long-time bunk mate or best friend has liked dudes the entire time. One of the more common (and dumber, really) questions is, "Will this infringe on my right to practice my own religion?" No. Idiot. Just as Mormons can serve in the military with people who drink, smoke, curse and tattoo all over their bodies, you can still practice your religion if I join up, even if I like penis. I promise I won't lock you in my sex dungeon and keep you from going to Sunday mass.

The only really practical concern is that of the relationships between the soldiers. The underlying problem being not of homosexuals joining and coming out, but rather the homophobes letting their own insecurity, anxiety or hatred stop them from performing and living in a manner that has become expected of them. I can imagine that it might be an uncomfortable situation, but at the same time I also see America moving toward a new era of love and acceptance.

At this point in time we're being 'tolerated'. Put up with. We're a chore. But things are getting better. Gay marriage is legal in six states, and last Wednesday a hearing was held regarding the negative effects DOMA (The Defense of Marriage Act) on married same-sex couples. The world will continue to improve, and even if I don't live to see the changes, I'll die happy knowing that they're on their way.

-Manchild