One such trailblazer was Franklin Kameny, an Army astronomer, who after being fired because he was gay, dedicated over 50 years of his life to activism and helping LGBTQI+ workers stand up for their rights. From seeking relief in the courts to picketing in front of the White House, activists stood up for their rights and helped lay the foundation for the modern-day LGBTQI+ civil rights movement. While this is a story of profound injustice, it is also a story of remarkable bravery. Some took their own lives as a result of the trauma they had to bear. Many endured poverty and public disgrace. Employees who were fired under these policies often lost future employment, other opportunities, and even relationships with their own families. As LGBTQI+ employees were forced out of the workforce, the Federal Government attempted to defend its policies by propagating false and hateful stereotypes - accusing this community of being a threat to our national security and unworthy of public trust. The Lavender Scare epitomized - and institutionalized - this injustice. But for so many members of the LGBTQI+ community, hate, discrimination, and isolation throughout our country’s history have denied them the full promise of America. Our Nation was founded on the sacred idea that all of us are created equal and deserve to be treated equally under our laws. On this anniversary, we acknowledge the importance of telling the complete history of our Nation, reflecting on the lives changed by this discrimination, honoring the courageous Americans who fought to end this injustice, and celebrating the contributions of today’s proud LGBTQI+ public servants - including members of our Armed Forces. This action codified a shameful chapter in our Nation’s history known as the “Lavender Scare.” It was a decades-long period when 5,000 to 10,000 LGBTQI+ Federal employees were investigated, were interrogated, and lost their jobs simply because of who they were and whom they loved. Seventy years ago, as the Cold War set in, President Eisenhower signed an Executive Order banning LGBTQI+ Americans from serving in the Federal Government. To keep building on that progress, we must reflect honestly on the darkest chapters of our story and on how far we have come. Our Nation has made tremendous progress in advancing the cause of equality for LGBTQI+ Americans. Get Involved Show submenu for “Get Involved””.The White House Show submenu for “The White House””.Office of the United States Trade Representative.Office of Science and Technology Policy.Executive Offices Show submenu for “Executive Offices””.Administration Show submenu for “Administration””.
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