Many LGBT service members face challenges when it comes to balancing their personal identities with institutional expectations in hierarchical military settings. This is because they must navigate various forms of discrimination, prejudice, and exclusion that can create tension between their personal lives and work lives. In this essay, I will explore how LGBT service members negotiate these issues while serving in the armed forces, focusing specifically on how they manage the tension between authenticity, identity disclosure, and institutional expectations within hierarchical contexts.
Authenticity refers to being true to oneself and one's values, beliefs, and actions. For LGBT individuals, this includes being open about their sexual orientation and gender identity without fear of judgment or reprisal.
In military settings where rank is highly valued and heteronormativity is often expected, being authentic can be difficult. Service members may feel pressure to hide their true selves in order to avoid negative consequences such as being ostracized, demoted, or even discharged from the military.
Identity disclosure refers to revealing information about oneself, including one's sexual orientation or gender identity, to others. LGBT service members may choose to disclose some or all aspects of their identity depending on the situation. Some may decide to keep their sexual orientation or gender identity private unless asked directly, while others may choose to be more open and visible. The decision to disclose or not can depend on many factors, including the specific situation, the individual's level of comfort with their own identity, and the potential consequences of disclosing their identity.
Institutional expectations refer to the rules, norms, and values of a particular organization, such as the military. These expectations are typically set by those in power and can include traditional ideas about masculinity and femininity, heterosexuality, and conformity.
The military may expect its members to adhere to strict dress codes that conform to gender binaries and reinforce traditional gender roles. This can create tension for LGBT service members who do not fit into these categories.
Navigating these tensions can be challenging for LGBT service members, but there are strategies they can use to balance personal authenticity, identity disclosure, and institutional expectations. One approach is to be selective in when and how they disclose their identities.
An LGBT service member may choose to only share certain aspects of their identity with close colleagues or friends within the military. Another strategy is to find support networks or allies within the military community who understand and accept them.
LGBT service members can take steps to challenge institutional expectations and promote inclusivity within the military. They can advocate for policies and practices that recognize and value diversity, and speak out against discrimination and prejudice when they see it. By doing so, they can help to create a more equitable and inclusive environment for all service members, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
Navigating these tensions requires self-awareness, courage, and resilience. It is important for LGBT service members to prioritize their own wellbeing and safety while also striving to make positive changes within the military culture. With time and effort, they can find ways to balance personal authenticity, identity disclosure, and institutional expectations, creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and respected.
How do LGBT service members navigate the tension between personal authenticity, identity disclosure, and institutional expectations within hierarchical military contexts?
LGBT service members face unique challenges when it comes to navigating the tension between personal authenticity, identity disclosure, and institutional expectations within hierarchical military contexts. The institutional environment of the US military can be hostile towards LGBT individuals, as they have been historically excluded from many positions of power and influence within the ranks.