The experience of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people in the US Armed Forces is shaped by both cultural and institutional factors, which include laws and policies that regulate their relationships. These measures can affect the way they interact with each other on personal, social, emotional, and physical levels. In this article, I will explore how legal and organizational reforms have influenced the lived experience of LGBT intimacy in the military since World War II to the present day. I will also provide examples of how these changes have impacted LGBT service members' daily lives through various sources, such as interviews, literature reviews, and data analysis.
Legal Changes
The history of LGBT rights in the United States dates back to the 19th century when sodomy laws were introduced across different states.
It was not until after World War II that the Pentagon banned LGBT service members from serving openly under 'Don't Ask Don't Tell.' This policy required them to hide their sexual orientation or face discharge from the armed forces. During this time, same-sex couples had to find ways to express their love without being discovered, often resulting in secrecy and fear. The law prevented them from holding hands or kissing publicly out of fear of being reported. In addition, some soldiers felt trapped between serving their country and living a lie about their true identities.
Organizational Reforms
In 2011, President Obama signed a repeal of the ban, allowing gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people to serve openly in the military. With this change, the Pentagon implemented regulations aimed at protecting LGBT service members' privacy by creating a safe space for them to express themselves freely.
They could use gender-neutral bathrooms, which made it easier for individuals who identified as neither male nor female to feel comfortable using restroom facilities.
The Armed Forces implemented training on how to recognize and address discrimination based on sex and sexuality. These efforts have made LGBT personnel feel more included and accepted within the organization.
Impact on Intimacy
Despite legal reforms and organizational changes, intimacy remains challenging for LGBT service members due to institutional norms that do not reflect diverse sexualities or genders.
Traditional family values are still promoted within the armed forces, which can make it difficult for LGBT people to form romantic relationships with each other. While there is no formal policy banning such connections, many service members fear retaliation if they come out or express affection publicly.
There is limited support available for same-sex couples who want to start families while serving in the military, making parenthood difficult.
The lived experience of LGBT intimacy in the military has been shaped by both cultural and institutional factors.
Recent legal and organizational reforms have created a safer environment where service members can be their authentic selves without fear of being ostracized or discharged. Nevertheless, there is still work to be done to create an inclusive culture where all service members are treated equally regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
How do legal and organizational reforms influence the lived experience of LGBT intimacy in the military?
Legal and organizational reforms have significantly impacted the lived experiences of LGBT individuals in the military regarding their romantic relationships. Following these reforms, LGBT people can now openly express their affection for one another in public, hold hands while walking down the street, celebrate anniversaries and other special occasions together, and share living quarters with their partners without fear of being reprimanded.