by: 
GarrettMize
GarrettMizeWednesday, July 6, 2011 at 10:51:00 AM EDT
Facebook
The President recently named Brenda 'Sue' Fulton to the Board of Visitors of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, making her the first openly gay or lesbian person to serve there.
A graduate of West Point in the first class that allowed women to attend, Fulton understands the challenges that face women and LGBTQ folks. She is the founder and co-founder of two organiztions, Knights Out and OutServe which serve and represent LGBTQ people at West Point and in the military.
She did not come out until she had finished her military service and was advocating for the repeal of Don't Ask Don't Tell (DADT).“I would hope it would symbolize to all people gay and straight that anti-gay bias in the military is a thing of the past,” Fulton told the Wall Street Journal about her new appointment. “I would hope it would tell them that if you’re willing to serve your country and you’re qualified, other factors don’t matter,” she said. “I see my role as in some sense helping West point send that message -- that we respect all people equally. That’s part of our values, that’s part of our code.”
The United States Military Academy at West Point is one of the most prestigious military and educational institutions in the country. Obama's appointmnet of Fulton to the leadership of this school indicates a larger shift toward equality for LGBTQ people and that the efforts of activists like Lt. Dan Choi, are paying off. Let's hope the momentum keeps up.
If you would like to read more about this story, please visit the Huffington Post.
Comments
[Add New Comment]
YES. We need more of this. Brenda Fulton is a wonderful leader and it goes without saying that she deserves at a seat at this West Point table.
# Posted By AFY_Nikki
| 7/6/11 11:17 AM
| Reply
[Add New Comment]
Get email updates and action alerts:
by AFY_Samantha
by AFY_Samantha
by AFY_Samantha