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TODAY'S BUZZ
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SLDN releases first-of-its-kind legal guide to service post-DADT
From a news release
2011-07-30
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This article shared 2424 times since Sat Jul 30, 2011
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(Washington, D.C.) Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN) today unveiled a comprehensive new legal guide for LGBT service members, veterans, future recruits, and their families, creating a first-of-its-kind overview of laws and policies related to military service in the U.S. following the repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" (DADT), as well as practical information for advocates and friends of LGBT service members. Freedom to Serve: The Definitive Guide to LGBT Military Service is downloadable in .pdf format at www.sldn.org .
"The information contained in this legal guide will help service members, prospective service members, their families, and friends make informed decisions about how to serve successfully as we move beyond 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell.' It will also assist them in understanding how to protect themselves when necessary and how to respond if they are targeted in any way for their actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity," said SLDN Legal Director David McKean.
In addition, the guide serves as the core content for the newly designed SLDN web site, www.sldn.org, unveiled today. The re-launched site is aimed squarely at providing LGBT service members, veterans and their families with the legal tools and other information they need to navigate the post-DADT repeal military environment.
"As has been our core mission since the founding of SLDN, we stand ready to represent and defend LGBT service members whenever the need arises, and our new online site reflects that ongoing commitment, while providing the most up-to-date and relevant information possible for those serving our country and those who support them," said Army Veteran and SLDN Executive Director Aubrey Sarvis.
In addition to outlining SLDN's legal services, the new guide and web site cover a myriad of issues including standards of conduct, benefits for spouses and families of service members, discharge upgrades, and veterans benefits. The new guidance becomes effective upon repeal of DADT on Tuesday, September 20, 2011. Until then, those seeking information or assistance should consult the SLDN Survival Guide, outlining issues related to serving under DADT.
Sarvis said that SLDN will continue the fight for full equality for LGB troops who are serving today, as well as for those qualified Americans who wish to join after the repeal of DADT takes place on September 20, 2011.
"The work of advancing military equality marches forward after repeal. At SLDN, we will fight alongside those who may face harassment or discrimination as we oversee implementation; when necessary and timely, litigate in the courts to bring about full LGBT equality in America's military; advocate for legally married service members to receive the same benefits as their straight counterparts; and assist veterans to correct or upgrade their discharge paperwork," said Sarvis.
To download Freedom to Serve: The Definitive Guide to LGBT Military Service, click here. |
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This article shared 2424 times since Sat Jul 30, 2011
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