Military Identity Disclosure delves into the complex journey of LGBTQ individuals in the U.S. military, exploring the historical context, policy shifts, and lived experiences of service members. The book examines how these individuals navigated restrictive policies such as “Don't Ask, Don't Tell” (DADT) and the subsequent challenges in achieving full inclusion, even after the repeal of DADT in 2011. It highlights that despite policy changes, subtle and overt discrimination persists, hindering complete integration within the military community.
The book uniquely presents a multi-faceted perspective using oral histories, archival documents, and policy analyses to give a nuanced understanding of LGBTQ military service. Beginning with an overview of LGBTQ policies and the implementation of DADT, the study progresses through the experiences of service members who lived in secrecy to the policy changes that followed DADT's repeal. It emphasizes the ongoing need for cultural change within the armed forces to ensure true equality and social justice.
By focusing on personal narratives and the subtle persistence of prejudice, Military Identity Disclosure offers valuable insights for policymakers, military leaders, and anyone interested in military history, equality in the military, and the experiences of LGBTQ veterans and service members. It challenges assumptions that policy reform alone guarantees equality and contributes to a more informed dialogue about LGBTQ military service.
