Don't Ask, Don't Tell: Is It Over?

What is the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" Policy?

Don't Ask, Don't tell is pretty self-explanatory. It refers to gay, lesbian and bisexual members of the military who wish to keep their sexuality private. (Homosexuals are denied acceptance into the military). 

"Don't Ask" simply means that military officials should not question or pester members of the military about their sexuality. "Don't Tell" means exactly that.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Don't_ask,_don't_tell

Recently, senate has been pushed and pressured to repeal the policy. They justify this by saying a person's sexuality will not affect their ability to fight for our country.

US Defense Secretary, Gates, as well as teh Pentagon study agree that the policy should be removed.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/topic/social-issues/discrimination/dont-ask-dont-tell-policy-repeal-(2010)-EVHST0000247.topic

President Obama on Repealing Don't Ask, Don't Tell

How Does This Relate to Class?

This relates to class because it deals with decisions that must be made. Depending on different political beliefs and political ideologies, people may feel differently about repealing the Don't Ask, Don't Tell policy.

Questions to Think About:

* How do you feel about the policy?

* If you were a gay, lesbian, or bisexual wanting to enlist in the military, how would you feel? Is this in any way a violation of your rights?