Pentagon Upgrades "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" Discharges
Pentagon Upgrades 800+ "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" Discharges
The Facts
The Pentagon has upgraded the service records of over 800 military personnel who were discharged under the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy to honorable discharges, granting them access to previously denied benefits.
The "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy, implemented in 1993 and repealed in 2011, allowed LGBTQ troops to serve in the armed forces as long as they didn't disclose their sexual orientation, resulting in approximately 13,500 service members being discharged.
The Spin
The Pentagon's decision to upgrade discharges is a significant step towards rectifying past discrimination against LGBTQ service members. It acknowledges the injustice of the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy and demonstrates a commitment to honoring the service of all troops, regardless of sexual orientation. This move, along with President Biden's pardons, shows progress in addressing historical wrongs and ensuring equal treatment for LGBTQ veterans.
While the upgrade of discharges is a positive development, it comes too late for many affected veterans who have already faced years of economic insecurity, housing instability, and mental health concerns due to their less-than-honorable discharges. The process of reviewing and upgrading discharges has been slow and burdensome for many veterans, and there are still thousands of cases that have not been addressed. More proactive measures are needed to ensure all affected veterans receive the recognition and benefits they deserve.
