ABSTRACT
One of the most important aspects of citizenship is being able to serve one’s country. The U.S. military’s treatment of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer members has been harsh ranging from discrimination and harassment to discharge. Two of the most well-known examples of discrimination based on sexual orientation are Sergeant Leonard Matlovich and Colonel Cammermeyer. Their stories are described along with a historical overview of informal policies to formal policies, including Don’t Ask Don’t Tell and the Don’t Ask Don’t Tell Repeal Act of 2010. Since 2010 lesbians, gays, and bisexuals have been legally and openly serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. However, transgender military members were not permitted to openly serve until 2016 under President Obama and the policy was reversed by President Trump. As a result, several lawsuits have been filed against President Trump alleging discrimination and violation of equal rights. These legal cases are analyzed.
