The End Of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell (plus alternative version including I for Intersexuality)

October 8th, 2011 Barry Deutsch Posted in LGBT cartoons | Comments Off

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First panel: We see a deep pit. Climbing out of the pit, using a rope and anchor, are three cartoon letters, each with arms and legs: “L,” “G,” and “B.” L: Almost there… Almost free of this horrible HOLE of DISCRIMINATION! Second panel: The three letters have climbed out of the pit, and are dancing and celebrating. LG & B (speaking together): We MADE IT! “Don’t ask don’t tell” is GONE! Third Panel: The shot has moved down to the bottom of the pit; the top of the panel is now above the top of the panel. There, still holding onto the rope and climbing, is a cartoon letter “T.” Word balloon from above the top of the panel: Thank goodness that’s over! Now we can rest! Another word balloon from above: YAY! T: Um… GUYS?

Don’t get me wrong — I’m thrilled about the end of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell. We should celebrate. But we shouldn’t forget that the work ain’t done.

Transgender American Veteran’s Association (TAVA) president Monica Helms wrote:

On this day of celebration, TAVA has one request for all of those who will be cheering and partying. We ask that everyone take a moment of silence to acknowledge that the fight is not over. A moment of silence for all of those trans people who will still face discharge when being outed.

Take a moment to remember the trans people who gave their lives in silence to protect this country. TAVA stands in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in celebrating this historical day. All we ask is for them to stand in solidarity with the trans community in our struggle to end ALL discrimination in the US military. The fight is not over.

UPDATE: At the suggestion of a magazine editor, I modified this cartoon to add an “I” for “intersexuality.”