DADT Film

Yesterday, my producer and I went to Washington D.C to lobby for 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' repeal. I will admit, that is not at all why we went. We went to interview the lobbyist and get their opinions on DADT, ask why they were lobbying and get some personal stories about their struggle under DADT. I got personal stories alright, stories that made me for once put down my camera and fight in the traditional way.

There we were in our jeans and t-shirts, sitting across from aids and advisors to Senator Gillibrand and Schumer of NY. What an experience! So amazing to sit across from those people and let our voices be heard. To know that they're going to their bosses and telling them that we support their vote. NY Senators are not like Mccain, they're smart and good. They all plan to fight for repeal and for the equality of homosexual soldiers.

I also met discharged soldiers and learned that not only is the story I'm telling accurate, but that it is soo much worse! These people have lived through nightmares, that we as Americans have ignored. I say no more! Standing there listening to stories of abuse, of rape, of mental and physical hurt, I was so ashamed of our government and citizens for treating other people like that, just because their gay.

After hearing those stories we had to lobby. Had to sit across from the politicians and tell them that we hold them responsible. That they must fight for the rights of the people in this country, no matter their sex, religion or gender. So, that's what we did. I also got a rush from it. From knowing that this bill is going to pass and I'm going to tell my grandchildren that I lobbied for change and got it. What are you going to tell your grandchildren that you did for equality?