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HRC’s Changing Issues

Military Non-discrimination

During the early 1990s HRCF worked very hard to protect the rights of homosexuals in the military.

The Operation Lift the Ban campaign was influential in garnering financial and lobbying support, in addition to educating the public and military.

“Operation Lift the Ban.” Sticker with logo. [ca. 1992]. HRC Records.
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The 1993 film, “To Support and Defend: The Role of Homosexuals in the Military,” provided insights into the issues and interviews of military and non-military people. It was distributed to a long list of press organizations for review and distribution.

	Human Rights Campaign Fund. “To Support and Defend: The Role of Homosexuals in the Military” Folder Cover. [ca. 1993.] HRC Records. [zoom]
	Human Rights Campaign Fund. “To Support and Defend: Selected Quotes,” [ca. 1993]. HRC Records. [zoom] View/download a PDF of this item
	Human Rights Campaign Fund. “‘To Support and Defend’: Distribution List,” [ca. 1993]. HRC Records. [zoom] View/download a PDF of this item

HRCF used special newsletters and pamphlets to mobilize its members to pressure their representatives for legislative change.

President Clinton signed the so-called “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” law in 1993, which prohibits gay, lesbian and bisexual service members from serving openly. Current military regulations also medically disqualify transsexual men and women from service. HRC has continued to educate and lobby for changing these laws, and has participated in the defense of gay and lesbian servicepeople.

HRC is now collaborating with the Servicemembers’ Legal Defense Network (SLDN) and American Veterans for Equal Rights (AVER) to collect the personal stories of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender veterans.The Documenting Courage: Veterans Speak Out project aims to educate members of Congress, the administration, and the public on the tremendous contributions LGBT veterans have made to the U.S. armed forces.

	HRCF Operation Lift the Ban. “Join the Forces: Lift the Ban.” Pamphlet, [ca. 1993.] HRC Records. [zoom] View/download a PDF of this item
	*HRCF Operation Lift the Ban. Momentum.* Spring 1993. HRC Records.** [zoom] View/download a PDF of this item

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