On Veterans Day, actress Angelica Ross, known for her roles in “American Horror Story” and “Pose,” opened up about her difficult experiences with the U.S. military’s “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy. The policy, which previously discharged servicemembers for being LGBTQ+, had a profound impact on Ross, who is transgender.
Early Military Career and Discharge
Ross joined the Navy at 17, hoping it would provide stability and help her with college funding through the G.I. Bill. However, she faced harassment from fellow servicemembers due to her perceived sexuality, leading to an “uncharacterized” discharge. Reflecting on her time in the military, Ross mentioned how she joined to escape her identity and find direction, gaining significant self-awareness and conviction in the process.
Moving into Politics and Advocacy
Since leaving the military, Ross has made strides in both the entertainment industry and activism. She is the founder of TransTech Social Enterprises, aimed at supporting trans individuals in tech fields. Her advocacy extends beyond this, as she recently announced her intention to delve into politics.
Pentagon’s Project for Reinstating Honor
Ross referenced the Pentagon’s initiative to restore honor to veterans discharged due to their sexuality. This change would grant these veterans access to benefits they’ve been denied, like healthcare, tuition assistance, and employment opportunities. The process to petition for status change has been cumbersome for many, and the new program aims to simplify and expedite this process.
The Impact of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”
CBS’s investigation highlighted the widespread effects of the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy, which led to the discharge of over 35,000 service members from 1980 to 2011 due to their sexuality. Fewer than 1,500 have successfully updated their discharge classification, underscoring the necessity of the Pentagon’s new outreach efforts.
A New Era of Inclusivity in the Military
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has expressed commitment to making the record correction process more accessible and efficient. With this move, the Pentagon acknowledges the contributions of LGBTQ+ servicemembers and aims to rectify past injustices.
Angelica Ross’s candid sharing on Veterans Day brings to light the challenges faced under the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy and the ongoing efforts to address these injustices. Her journey from a young navy recruit to a prominent actress and advocate reflects her resilience and dedication to uplifting the LGBTQ+ community. The Pentagon’s initiative represents a significant step towards honoring the service and sacrifices of all veterans, regardless of their sexual orientation.