Appeal of navy gay case flawed
Article Abstract:
Thomasson v. Perry is in the first group of cases challenging the 'don't ask, don't tell' policy on homosexual military personnel to be heard by the US Supreme Court. Thomasson's lawyers are misguided in thinking it is possible to challenge only one part of the policy, namely requiring the discharge of any soldier or sailor who admits he or she is gay. The Court should hear a case on the policy as a whole. Consensual sex at home is perfectly legal for heterosexual military personnel, but illegal for gays. This is a double standard which should not be allowed to continue.
Publication Name: The National Law Journal
Subject: Law
ISSN: 0162-7325
Year: 1996
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Steffan case shows Navy policy still anti-gay
Article Abstract:
The US Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit has heard oral arguments in the case of Steffan v. Aspin, a gay sailor's appeal of his discharge from the Navy. In this case, the judges will rule on the constitutionality of the military's new 'don't ask, don't tell' policy on gays. The Navy's refusal to reinstate Steffan puts the lie to the Department of Defense's pledge to allow gays who have served honorably to remain in the armed services. Government briefs in the case show a willingness to continue to give greater weight to unfounded fears than to facts.
Publication Name: The National Law Journal
Subject: Law
ISSN: 0162-7325
Year: 1993
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Time to end constitutional double talk
Article Abstract:
There is no evidence that homosexuality and military service are incompatible, and the military's discrimination against gays who wish to serve their country must stop. The fact that all other Western countries have adopted more liberal policies without adverse effects on military preparedness is also evidence that things should change in the US.
Publication Name: The National Law Journal
Subject: Law
ISSN: 0162-7325
Year: 1993
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