SERVICEMEMBERS LEGAL DEFENSE NETWORK (SLDN)

“Servicemembers Legal Defense Network is proud to be the beneficiary of this exciting line from Reichen and LoveandPride.com. Every FLY NAKED purchase helps SLDN in our mission to end discrimination in our armed forces. Our supporters now have a unique opportunity to support SLDN’s work through this partnership.” – Steve Ralls, Director of Communications, SLDN

ABOUT SLDN

Founded in 1993, the Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (www.SLDN.org) is the nation’s sole legal aid and advocacy organization assisting members of the US Armed Forces harmed by “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” and related forms of intolerance. SLDN is a national, non-profit legal services, watchdog and law organization dedicated to ending discrimination against and harassment of military personnel. SLDN’s plan for repeal of ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ places strategic focus on grassroots organizing, outreach & education and an increasing emphasis on policy advocacy.”

SLDN’s plan for repeal of ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ places strategic focus on grassroots organizing, outreach & education and an increasing emphasis on policy advocacy.” SLDN has always worked vigorously to repeal Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell and preserve opportunity for every American to defend the freedoms of our nation. SLDN goals include:

• Lift the ban preventing gays, lesbians and bisexuals from serving openly and honestly in the military.
• Provide free legal services to service members harmed by Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell and related, discriminatory policies.
• Protect service members from harassment based on perceived sexual orientation or gender identity.
• Advocate for laws and practices that improve the lives of service members.
• Support service member and veteran pride as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender persons.
• Strengthen organizational capacity to assure the freedom to serve in the most cost-effective, strategic fashion.

“Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell, Don’t Pursue” became law in 1994. The new law, codified by Congress, forbids gays from being honest about their sexual orientation, engaging in sexual or affectionate conduct, or gay marriage. It promises an end to witch hunts, asking and pursuits of lesbian, gay and bisexual service members. Instead, law violations and discharges soar. The Pentagon later added “Don’t Harass” to the law in an attempt to curb rampant anti-gay harassment on military bases.