Gays in the Military (Equal Employment Opportunity) Essay

Gays in the Military (Equal Employment Opportunity) - Essay Example This policy also lawfully pertains to military personnel. It’s simple, the government does not allow discriminatory practices in hiring therefore gays must be given equal access to all military jobs whether in a combat or non-combat role. However, the issue of gays in the military is far from simple and a topic of heated debate. The main argument against it concerns privacy and troop morale while the argument for is based on defending the uniquely American concept of personal freedom that the troops are fighting to protect, among other objectives. Some suggest that bigotry and ignorance are the root causes of the opposition to gays serving their country, that troop morale is just an excuse used to deny American citizens their civil liberties. Others believe homosexuality to be an immoral lifestyle choice which, if tolerated, would tarnish the proud, well-deserved iconic image the U.S. Armed Forces has spent centuries to earn and diminished the effectiveness of the men and wome n in uniform. This discussion examines the debate in a historical context specifically the ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ policy, the Constitution and the Founding Fathers’ viewpoint on personal liberties as well as the opinions of those who inspired the Founders, both pro and con as it pertains to this issue. It also addresses the issue of homosexuality itself, an important consideration because if it is indeed a choice, in the same way drinking and driving is a choice, then it would not be covered under federal employment discrimination laws. The opinions and reasoning’s of those against gays in the military will be reviewed and subsequently debunked while the harmful effects to the security of the U.S. by banning gays are illuminated. The ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ policy was enacted soon after President Bill Clinton assumed office in 1993. Clinton initially sought to end the military’s ban on admitting gays entirely with no