He is a Marine Corps veteran, LGBTQIA+ As a member of the community, I know the challenges of serving my country and navigating a society that doesn’t accept me for who I am. In 2007, my military service ended under the previous “don’t ask, don’t tell” law when I decided to no longer hide that I was gay. That experience showed me the devastating impact of discriminatory policies.
That is why I know that the reelection of President Donald Trump would be disastrous for our community.
As the spouse of an active duty Marine during President Trump’s chaotic administration, I witnessed firsthand how his administration shamelessly targeted our military community and fostered a culture of intolerance. In a tweet, President Trump attacked and banned transgender service members. This was not just a policy decision, it was a direct attack on those who proudly serve in the military.
It was also a painful reminder for the LGBTQIA+ military community that their contributions could be ignored at any time.
For those who have dedicated their lives to their country, it was a massive betrayal. But according to former Chief of Staff and retired Marine Gen. John Kelly, it shouldn’t come as a surprise coming from a man who openly scorns the families of Gold Star recipients and calls our fallen heroes “stupid” and “losers.”
A second term for President Trump will undoubtedly be even more frightening than his first.
Trump’s rhetoric and record not only show disrespect for our community, but also embolden those who believe that LGBTQIA+ people should not belong in the military or in society. Those around Trump are actively working to weaken and roll back our rights. The threat of discriminatory policies under a second Trump Administration is dangerously real, and the impact on LGBTQIA+ service members, their families, and the military as a whole could be devastating.
In stark contrast, Kamala Harris has consistently demonstrated her unwavering support for the military and our communities. From cracking down on targeted fraud to providing historic care and benefits to veterans and their families, Harris believes our nation has a sacred obligation to our service members, veterans and their families. She has also been a vocal advocate for LGBTQIA+ equality throughout her career and worked to protect and uplift our communities.
Military veteran Tim Waltz understands the sacrifices military personnel make. He has used his platform to advocate for policies that support all military personnel, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation. In 1999, when Coach Waltz became faculty adviser to the Gay-Straight Alliance at his Minnesota high school, LGBTQ While acceptance was not widespread, he sent a powerful message of support and inclusion.
Ms. Harris and Mr. Walz embody leadership that values ​​diversity, inclusion, and the dignity of all who serve our country.
We need leaders who will advocate for all our soldiers and their families, not just a few. We need leaders who understand that diversity strengthens our military and that all qualified individuals who want to serve can do so without fear of discrimination. We have seen what happens when these values ​​are ignored under the Trump Administration. We cannot go back to that.
Stephen Peters A Marine Corps veteran, military family advocate, and communications strategist based in Washington, D.C., she previously served as president of the American Military Partners Association and later as a spokesperson for the Human Rights Campaign and the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights.
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