Lady Gaga and DADT

A vote is finally being taken on Don't Ask Don't Tell in the US. This is the policy that means you can't ask anyone in the US armed forces if they are gay (if you are yourself in the armed forces) and you can not reveal if you are gay. It was a typically botched measure from the Clinton administration but Obama is so far, a long way from the shining knight on LGBT issues.

The Advocate suggests it's not going well and is not likely to be passed (see here). My own guess based on the briefings and general vibes I got while talking to lawyers and campaigners during my recent visit to the States is that it won't be passed but it's a bit up in the air. Channel 4 news mentioned the vote tonight but focused on the Lady Gaga aspect which, if the vote is lost will actually prove to be key in what follows. She's been a tireless and it's argued, effective campaign on this issue, like many LGBT issues. Read that report and see the Gaga video here.

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