Recently, thousands of flamboyant, rainbow flag waving protesters marched in Washington. Their demand? The right serve openly in the military. There is a certain irony here. One of the most stridently liberal and anti-military demographics in the country is demanding the right to serve in the military.
The issue of gays in the military is not, or at least ought not be, about the ability or willingness of gays to serve their country. No doubt many are able and willing. It is about the close quarters and the forced intimacy of military life. The prospect of sharing a shower, a room, or a tent with someone who may be attracted to you and find you sexually appealing can be uncomfortable and unpleasant, especially if those sentiments aren't shared or welcome. How many women (even liberal women) would feel comfortable dressing, showering, and sleeping among men? Very few I imagine. That is why men and women have separate showers, bathrooms, dressing rooms, and barracks. The unease about gays in the military is not about "homophobia." It is about human nature, and human nature has long been the greatest frustration to idealists. One does not "get over" human nature.
If the demands of gay rights protesters to serve openly in the military are ever met, I imagine there would be a great deal of celebration in the gay and lesbian community and among it's supporters. I wonder if the military might want to set up enlistment booths at gay pride rallies to take advantage of the celebrants' patriotism. How many of the celebrators do you think would enlist? How much of their anger do you suppose is caused by their frustrated patriotism and desire to fight in Iraq and Afghanistan, rather than the fact that someone refused one of their demands?
As a side note, I look forward to the day when polygamists march on Washington to demand tolerance, respect, and the right to "love" as they please.
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