Many countries' militaries have strict policies regarding gender roles, masculinity, and sexual orientation. This can make it difficult for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer soldiers to feel comfortable sharing their true identities while serving in such a hierarchical environment. In some cases, service members may be forced to hide their authentic selves in order to fit into traditional norms.
There are strategies that LGBTQ+ individuals can use to navigate these issues effectively.
First step: Understand the military culture
Understanding the military culture is crucial when navigating identity disclosure. Service members should research their branch's history and values to determine what behaviors are acceptable and unacceptable within the organization. They should also familiarize themselves with the chain of command and other power structures within their unit.
They should understand how their fellow soldiers might react if they were to come out as LGBTQ+. This knowledge will help them decide whether or not to disclose their identity and how best to do so.
Second step: Decide whether to disclose
Service members must consider whether coming out is worth the potential risks. While many organizations now accept LGBTQ+ individuals, some still view homosexuality as immoral or damaging to morale. Those who choose to come out should carefully select whom they share this information with and when they do so. It may be better to wait until after one has been accepted into the unit and established trust with peers.
Third step: Come out to close friends and family first
Coming out to friends and family before telling coworkers can ease the process. Sharing personal stories and experiences with loved ones allows for practicing coming out in a safer space. They can provide support during the transition and offer advice on how to approach the topic with others. Service members should avoid sharing too much information online or through social media because it could damage their career prospects or compromise security.
Fourth step: Be prepared for negative reactions
Some service members may face resistance from colleagues, supervisors, or even family members once they come out. Reaction times vary widely but often involve anger, confusion, or disappointment. In these cases, it's crucial to stay calm and explain why coming out was important. Being prepared for possible repercussions such as being ostracized or facing prejudice is also essential.
Fifth step: Focus on performance
LGBTQ+ soldiers need to focus on their job performance rather than their identity. This means demonstrating competence in their duties while maintaining professionalism and respect for authority figures. By showing that they are reliable and valuable teammates, they can gain acceptance within the organization over time.
Sixth step: Create an LGBTQ+ community
Service members can find support by connecting with other LGBTQ+ individuals both inside and outside of the military. Online communities like OutServe-SLDN and organizations like GLAAD offer resources and networking opportunities. Many branches have diversity and inclusion programs designed specifically for sexual minorities. These groups allow service members to form relationships based on shared experiences and build a network of allies.
How do LGBT soldiers navigate identity disclosure when faced with hierarchical and conservative military cultures?
LGBT soldiers have historically experienced difficulty navigating their identities within the context of the US military due to its traditional values regarding gender roles and sexuality. In particular, individuals who identify as transgender, gay, lesbian, bisexual, or queer may find it challenging to disclose their personal lives and experiences to colleagues, superiors, and subordinates in an environment where homophobia and transphobia are prevalent.