AMA speaks out on Don't Ask, Don't Tell and same-sex marriage

November 11, 11:26 AMBirmingham Gay Community ExaminerJoe Openshaw

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The American Medical Association has voted to join in the effort to repeal "Don't Ask, Don't Tell,"  and also adopted a measure that declares same-sex marriage bans contribute to health disparities for same-sex couples and their children.

Don't Ask, Don't tell creates an ethical dilemma when gay service members have to decide whether to lie or be truthful with their doctors, according to the AMA.

Darren Manzella is an Iraq war veteran who was recently discharged due to DADT.  His is just one of thousands of such stories.  This being Veteran's Day, it is proper to hear from a Veteran.

 The Human Rights Campaign applauded the move:

Because the law requires LGB service members to serve in silence or face discharge, they are unable to provide doctors will (sic) all of the information that may be necessary in giving medical guidance and treatment.

As to the same-sex marriage position adopted by the AMA:

HRC shares the AMA’s belief that barriers to marriage equality have an array of negative implications for same-sex couples and their families, including substantial health disparities. HRC welcomes the AMA’s concerns over health care disparities and encourages it to support laws that would fully and fairly recognize LGBT people and their families.

While on the subject of marriage, consider this video of Dan Savage explaining traditional marriage (NSFW due to the f-word) .