Gay service members who "tell" during Congress testimony would be immune from forced discharge

By GottaLaff

Every time I read about the incremental steps to ensure gay rights, I shake my head in disbelief, realizing anew how many scared, ignorant people still don't get it.

It's good to see Hastings out there fighting the good fight, but it shouldn't even be necessary in this day and age:

Gay service members who reveal their sexual orientations during congressional testimony would be immune from forced discharges under a bill introduced Wednesday, as lawmakers prepare to consider repealing the ban on gays serving openly in the U.S. military.

The legislation's author, U.S. Rep. Alcee Hastings, D-Fla., said the bill is needed to ensure that Congress has reliable and relevant witnesses at its disposal if the House holds hearings next year on the "don't ask, don't tell" policy.

The bill also would protect from retaliatory personnel actions any members of the military who testify for or against lifting the 16-year ban.

There are arguments for and against the bill included in the article, but IMHO, it is, sadly, an essential protection.

Heavy sigh.