• Octavio@lemmy.world
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    16 hours ago

    So, I was alive when DA/DT went into effect, not sure how many people here were. The interesting thing is that as much as it was a cruel and unnecessary policy and in hindsight is completely indefensible, it actually was a step forward for gay rights. Before that the policy was you absolutely would be asked, and if you didn’t tell, you could be charged with a crime. People lost their pensions and got discharged with no benefits just for being gay. Moreover, I honestly don’t think it would have been possible at the time to get a more sensible policy through, because all the usual suspects were absolutely losing their minds about the baby step that it was.

    I’m not a Bill Clinton apologist, but I kind of think he deserves a pass on that one. It’s really hard to explain how quickly the ground shifted on that issue from the 90s to the 2010s. Clinton kind of stuck his neck out for progress, as imperfect as it was.

    • MagicShel@lemmy.zip
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      15 hours ago

      I agree with you. Maybe that came across as anti-Clinton. In my defense, I’ve always detested the Clintons and have little interest in spending words making him look better.

      I do appreciate you pointing that out. It’s a valuable lens to look back with. Still, from our perspective today, shameful, even if necessary.