The article presents an analysis of how lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and intersex (LGBT) people who are serving in the United States Military cope with gender nonconformity and express themselves while upholding traditional military standards.
As a minority group within the armed forces, LGBT individuals have faced challenges related to their identity, sexual orientation, and gender expression for decades. During Don't Ask, Don't Tell (DADT), they were forced to remain closeted about their sexual orientation, which led to discrimination and harassment from fellow soldiers.
Since DADT was repealed in 2011, LGBT service members have been able to serve openly without fear of reprisal or persecution.
One way that LGBT service members manage the tension between conforming to military norms and self-expression is through code-switching. Code-switching refers to the ability to switch between different linguistic styles depending on the situation.
Some may adopt a more masculine or feminine demeanor when interacting with other troops or officers, but adopt a more fluid or ambiguous style when interacting with friends outside the military. This allows them to navigate social situations where they might feel uncomfortable if they were to be too forthright about their identities.
Another method used by LGBT service members is finding supportive networks within the military community. These can include groups like OutServe-SLDN, an organization dedicated to advocating for LGBT equality in the military, as well as informal groups formed within individual units. By forming relationships with other LGBT individuals who understand their experiences, they can find acceptance and validation for their identities, even if they cannot express themselves fully at work.
Many LGBT service members find ways to express their identities through their uniforms and appearance. Some may choose to wear pride pins or other symbols that represent their sexuality or gender identity discreetly. Others may opt for more flamboyant clothing choices, such as high heels or colorful nail polish, which allow them to show off their personality without violating regulations. In either case, these small gestures can help LGBT individuals feel more comfortable and confident in their own skin, despite the strict standards of the military.
While serving in the United States Military presents challenges for all soldiers, it is particularly difficult for those who identify as LGBT.
There are strategies that LGBT service members can use to manage this tension, including code-switching, finding supportive networks, and expressing themselves through subtle means.
How do LGBT soldiers manage the tension between conforming to military norms and self-expression?
In the US military, there is a long history of discrimination against LGBT individuals, with policies such as "Don't Ask Don't Tell" (DADT) that prevented openly gay and lesbian service members from serving until 2011. Despite this policy, many members of the LGBT community still chose to serve their country and faced challenges regarding self-expression.