American Military Partners Association (79 Articles with 264,200 total views)

The American Military Partner Association is the nation's largest resource and support network for the partners, spouses, families, and allies of America’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) service members and veterans. Founded by the partners of active duty service members, AMPA has grown to the strength of over 32,000 members and supporters and is proud to be leading the nation in education, advocacy, and support for our modern military families. Through our unprecedented work, we're building strong resource and support networks like no other.

May, 2019

AMPA Statement on Trump-Pence Transgender Military Ban Implementation

AMPA Statement on Trump-Pence Transgender Military Ban Implementation
WASHINGTON - April 11, 2019 - Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of LGBTQ military families, released the following statement ahead of the Trump-Pence administration's implementation of a ban on military service by transgender people. The transgender military ban goes into effect tomorrow, Friday, April 12.
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April, 2019

Key National LGBTQ Military Organizations Respond to Trump Administration's Implementation of Ban on Open Trans Military Service

Key National LGBTQ Military Organizations Respond to Trump Administration's Implementation of Ban on Open Trans Military Service
WASHINGTON - March 12, 2019 - Today, the Trump-Pence administration took steps to implement its ban on open transgender military service. Implementation processes noted in the directive will officially go into effect in thirty days, just under three years after the current policy, allowing open transgender military service, was implemented. All four service chiefs and 41 retired Generals and Admirals have emphatically denounced the claims this Administration is using to justify the ban.
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March, 2019

Bipartisan Legislation to Support Trans Military Service Introduced in Congress

Bipartisan Legislation to Support Trans Military Service Introduced in Congress
WASHINGTON - February 7, 2019 - Today, in a joint and bipartisan effort, the Senate and the House of Representatives introduced parallel bills to protect the service of our transgender service members and hopeful recruits. When passed, these efforts will make open and authentic service for our transgender siblings the law of the land.
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February, 2019

Key National LGBTQ Military Organizations Applaud Members of Congress for Bringing Visibility to Transgender Military Service Through State of the Union Invites

Key National LGBTQ Military Organizations Applaud Members of Congress for Bringing Visibility to Transgender Military Service Through State of the Union Invites
(Washington, D.C., Feb. 5, 2019) – In preparation for President Trump's State of the Union Address, several Members of Congress have chosen to invite actively-serving and veteran transgender service members to attend the event as their honored guests:
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NEW POLL: Overwhelming 70% of Americans Oppose Trump-Pence Transgender Military Ban

NEW POLL: Overwhelming 70% of Americans Oppose Trump-Pence Transgender Military Ban
WASHINGTON - January 29, 2019 - Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of LGBTQ military families, responded to a new Quinnipiac University National Poll showing that an overwhelming majority of Americans oppose Donald Trump's attempts to implement a transgender military ban. The poll found that, "American voters say 70 - 22 percent that transgender people should be allowed to serve in the military."
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June, 2018

Nation's Largest LGBT Military Spouse Non-Profit Launches MilPride - A New Program Focused on Families with LGBT Kids

Nation's Largest LGBT Military Spouse Non-Profit Launches MilPride - A New Program Focused on Families with LGBT Kids
WASHINGTON - May 13, 2018 - Tonight, at the organization's 5th annual national gala, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA) - the nation's largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military spouses, families, and allies - announced the launch of a new program focused on education, advocacy, and support for military families with LGBT children. The new program, called MilPride, will be led by Jessica Girven and Amanda Brewer - military mothers of transgender youth who have had to face challenges and discrimination in navigating the military system.
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April, 2018

BREAKING: LGBT Military Groups Denounce Trump-Pence Implementation Plan for Transgender Military Ban

BREAKING: LGBT Military Groups Denounce Trump-Pence Implementation Plan for Transgender Military Ban
WASHINGTON - March 23, 2018 – Today, the nation's leading lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military advocates responded to the heinous and continued push from the Trump-Pence Administration to implement their discriminatory transgender military ban. The White House released further details about implementation of the ban today. However, six separate federal courts have blocked implementation of the ban, and barring further court action, the administration cannot implement it. The Pentagon has stated it will continue to comply with court orders blocking the ban.
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March, 2018

LGBT Military Groups Celebrate First Out Trans Recruit Signing Up To Join the Armed Forces

LGBT Military Groups Celebrate First Out Trans Recruit Signing Up To Join the Armed Forces
WASHINGTON - February 27, 2018 - Today, the nation's leading lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military organizations, OutServe-SLDN, the American Military Partner Association, and SPARTA issued statements responding to the news that the first out transgender recruit has signed up to join the U.S. Armed Forces.As first reported by CNN's Ryan Browne yesterday, "The Pentagon confirmed Monday that the first transgender person has signed a contract to join the US military, a development made possible after a federal judge ruled that the military must accept transgender recruits."
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NEW: LGBTQ Advocates Launch TV Ad Targeting Trump-Pence Ban on Transgender Troops

NEW: LGBTQ Advocates Launch TV Ad Targeting Trump-Pence Ban on Transgender Troops
WASHINGTON - March 1, 2018 - Today, the Human Rights Campaign, Lambda Legal, OutServe-SLDN, the American Military Partner Association, and Gender Justice League unveiled a new television ad -- entitled "Patriots" -- featuring military, national security, and bipartisan officials voicing opposition to the Trump-Pence administration's ban on transgender service members. The television ad is part of the largest paid media campaign against Donald Trump's ban on transgender troops since he tweeted the policy last July -- and complements a full page print ad that ran in USA Today and more than 32 regional Gannett papers nationwide this week.
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February, 2018

Republican National Committee Slanders Transgender Service Members

Republican National Committee Slanders Transgender Service Members
WASHINGTON, D.C. - February 2, 2018 - Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA) - the nation's largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military spouses, families, and allies - strongly condemned a Republican National Committee (RNC) vote passing a resolution backing President Trump's attempt to kick transgender service members out of the military and block qualified transgender recruits from entering the military. The resolution states the military should consider transgender people as having 'a disqualifying psychological and physical' condition."
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December, 2017

Federal Judge: Pentagon Must Allow Qualified Transgender Americans to Enter the Military

Federal Judge: Pentagon Must Allow Qualified Transgender Americans to Enter the Military
WASHINGTON, DC - November 27, 2017  - Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of LGBT military spouses and their families, responded to a federal judge's ruling that the military must move forward with previous plans to allow transgender individuals to enter the military starting on January 1, 2018. The Trump administration is appealing the decision. The ruling clarifies an earlier decision in the case of Doe v. Trump that blocked President Trump's transgender military ban. The court order can be found here.
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November, 2017

Bipartisan Legislation Introduced to Protect Trans Service Members From President Trump

Bipartisan Legislation Introduced to Protect Trans Service Members From President Trump
WASHINGTON, DC - October 13, 2017  - Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of LGBT military families, praised members of Congress for introducing bipartisan legislation that would help protect transgender service members from being discharged because of President Trump's unconscionable transgender military ban. The legislation was introduced today in the U.S. House of Representatives by Representatives Jackie Speier (D-CA), Charlie Dent (R-PA), Susan Davis (D-CA), Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Adam Smith (D-WA), and Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ). The Senate version was introduced in September by Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Susan Collins (R-ME), John McCain (R-AZ), and Jack Reed (D-RI).
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Federal District Court Blocks Trump's Transgender Military Ban

Federal District Court Blocks Trump's Transgender Military Ban
WASHINGTON, DC - October 30, 2017  - Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of LGBT military spouses and their families, responded to a federal district court's decision in the case of Doe v. Trump blocking part of President Trump's transgender military ban. The judge states, "The effect of the Court's Order is to revert to the status quo with regard to accession and retention that existed before the issuance of the Presidential Memorandum-that is, the retention and accession policies established in the June 30, 2016 Directive-type Memorandum as modified by Secretary of Defense James Mattis on June 30, 2017." The full court order can be found here.
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October, 2017

Bipartisan Amendment Introduced to Protect Transgender Service Members from President Trump

Bipartisan Amendment  Introduced to Protect Transgender Service Members from President Trump
WASHINGTON, D.C. - September 12, 2017 — Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of LGBT military families, hailed Senators Collins' and Gillibrand's introduction of an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act that would prohibit the Department of Defense from removing qualified transgender service members from the military due to President Trump's transgender military ban.
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BREAKING: Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dunford Opposes Transgender Military Ban

BREAKING: Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dunford Opposes Transgender Military Ban
WASHINGTON, D.C. - September 26, 2017 - Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of LGBT military families, responded to testimony from Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dunford indicating he opposes President Trump's transgender military ban. 
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September, 2017

AMPA Responds to President Trump's Outrageous Comments on Transgender Service Members

AMPA Responds to President Trump's Outrageous Comments on Transgender Service Members
WASHINGTON, D.C. - August 10, 2017 - Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of LGBT military spouses and their families, responded to comments made by President Donald Trump regarding the service of transgender troops and his move to ban them from the military. Regarding his recent tweets announcing his ban, President Trump said, "As you know, it's been a very complicated issue for the military. It's been a very confusing issue for the military, and I think I'm doing the military a great favor."
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BREAKING: White House Sets Rules for Military Transgender Ban

BREAKING: White House Sets Rules for Military Transgender Ban
WASHINGTON, D.C. - August 23, 2017 - Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of LGBT military spouses and their families, strongly condemned new rules from the White House implementing President Donald Trump's vicious assault on transgender service members. According to a report by the Wall Street Journal, the new guidance will "allow Defense Secretary Jim Mattis to consider a service member's ability to deploy in deciding whether to kick them out of the military. The White House memo also directs the Pentagon to deny admittance to transgender individuals and to stop spending on medical treatment regimens for those currently serving, according to U.S. officials familiar with the document."
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President Trump Orders Pentagon to Implement His Transgender Military Ban

President Trump Orders Pentagon to Implement His Transgender Military Ban
WASHINGTON, D.C. - August 25, 2017 - Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of LGBT military spouses and their families, responded to news that the White House has issued a directive in order to carry out President Trump's transgender military ban. The outrageous and unprecedented policy indefinitely extends the ban on qualified transgender recruits from entering the military and rips away at least some medically necessary, transition-related health care from currently serving transgender troops.
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U.S. Commission on Civil Rights Condemns Trump's Proposed Transgender Military Ban

U.S. Commission on Civil Rights Condemns Trump's Proposed Transgender Military Ban
WASHINGTON, D.C. - August 18, 2017 - Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of LGBT military spouses and their families, praised the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights' condemnation of President Trump's proposed transgender military ban
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August, 2017

BREAKING: House Rules Committee Voting on Radical Anti-Transgender NDAA Amendment

BREAKING: House Rules Committee Voting on Radical Anti-Transgender NDAA Amendment
WASHINGTON, D.C. July 12, 2017 - Tonight, OutServe-SLDN and the American Military Partner Association (AMPA) issued the following statements in response to Rep. Vicky Hartzler's (R-MO) attempts to add an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that would rip away medically necessary health care for transgender service members and military dependents. After failing to amend the bill to ban transgender service members during markup before the House Armed Services Committee, Rep. Hartzler has proposed a new amendment to the NDAA which would bar access to transition-related health care for military service members and their families. The House Rules Committee is allowing a vote on the amendment tonight.
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US House of REps Votes Down Amendment Ripping Away Critical Health Care for Trans Service Members & Military Famil

US House of REps Votes Down Amendment Ripping Away Critical Health Care for Trans Service Members & Military Famil
WASHINGTON, D.C. - July 13, 2017 - Today, OutServe-SLDN and the American Military Partner Association (AMPA) praised a vote by the U.S. House of Representatives voting down a vicious amendment that would have ripped away medically necessary health care for transgender service members and military dependents. Proposed by Rep. Vicky Hartzler (R-MO), the amendment would have barred access to transition-related health care - including critically important care such as hormone therapy - for service members and military family members. The amendment was defeated by a vote of 214 to 209.
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July, 2017

BREAKING: Pentagon Delays New Transgender Recruitment Policy By Six Months

BREAKING: Pentagon Delays New Transgender Recruitment Policy By Six Months
WASHINGTON, D.C. June 30, 2017 – Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest non-profit organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military families, responded to news that the Department of Defense (DoD) is delaying the implementation of a new policy that will eventually allow transgender people to enlist and commission into the military. The delay will not prevent the thousands of currently serving transgender troops from continuing to serve. According to a report last week, the service chiefs recommended the six month delay to "gauge if currently serving transgender troops are facing problems and what necessary changes the military bases might have to make."
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Defense Department May Delay New Recruitment Policy Allowing Transgender People to Enter the Military

Defense Department May Delay New Recruitment Policy Allowing Transgender People to Enter the Military
WASHINGTON, DC - June 23, 2017 – Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military families, responded to news that the Department of Defense (DoD) may be poised to delay by six months the implementation of a new policy allowing transgender recruits to enter the military. The proposed delay will not prevent currently serving transgender service members from continuing to serve, however, it would delay the change in policy allowing qualified and talented transgender people from entering the military.
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June, 2017

AMPA Announces New Scholarship Program to Help Military Spouses Through Higher Education

AMPA Announces New Scholarship Program to Help Military Spouses Through Higher Education
WASHINGTON - May 15, 2017 - Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest non-profit organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military spouses and their families, announced the launch of the AMPA Military Spouse Scholarship - a new program aimed to help military spouses pursue their higher education goals. AMPA also announced that Hilton will be the presenting sponsor of the new military spouse scholarship this year.
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May, 2017

BREAKING: Anti-LGBT Mark Green Withdraws from Army Secretary Nomination

BREAKING: Anti-LGBT Mark Green Withdraws from Army Secretary Nomination
WASHINGTON, D.C. - May 5, 2017 - Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military spouses and their families, released the following statement following the withdrawal of Mark Green as the nominee for Secretary of the Army. "Mark Green should never have even been considered for Secretary of the Army," said AMPA President Ashley Broadway Mack. "His vicious attacks on LGBT people should have been disqualifying from the very beginning. It took an overwhelming chorus of voices speaking out in outrage over the nomination, but we are pleased that in the end, what is best for our military families has prevailed. The U.S. Army needs leadership that will ensure all of our service members and their families have the support they need and deserve, and Mark Green was clearly not that leader."
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Current and Former Military University Faculty Members Alarmed by Trump's Army Secretary Nominee

Current and Former Military University Faculty Members Alarmed by Trump's Army Secretary Nominee
From American Military Parterns Association President Ashley Broadway- Mack:"As this statement from military professors shows, the growing consensus is that Mark Green's nomination as Army Secretary must be stopped. His vicious attacks on the LGBT community and other minorities are beyond the pale and are contrary to the military's core values. We must stand up for all of our men and women in uniform, including those Green has singled out with vile insults."
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Members of Congress Speak Out Over Nomination of Mark Green As Army Secretary

Members of Congress Speak Out Over Nomination of Mark Green As Army Secretary
WASHINGTON - April 27, 2017 -- Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military spouses and their families, praised a letter signed by thirty one members of the U.S. House of Representatives speaking out against the nomination of Mark Green as Secretary of the Army due to Green's vicious attacks on LGBT people.
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March, 2017

Military Families Outraged & Fearful Over Trump Administration Decision to Rescind Transgender Student Guidance for Scho

Military Families Outraged & Fearful Over Trump Administration Decision to Rescind Transgender Student Guidance for Scho
WASHINGTON - February 22, 2017 -- Tonight, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military families, expressed outrage over the Trump Administration's decision to rescind Obama administration guidance from the Department of Justice (DoJ) and Department of Education (DoE) that ensured transgender students are treated with dignity and respect. The original federal guidance clearly stated schools' obligations to protect transgender students under Title IX and ensure they have access to facilities consistent with their gender identity, among other protections.
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February, 2017

General Mattis Indicates He Will Not Roll Back Open LGBT Military Service As Secretary of Defense

General Mattis Indicates He Will Not Roll Back Open LGBT Military Service As Secretary of Defense
WASHINGTON - January 12, 2017 -- Today, the nation's leading organizations for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) service members and their families -- the American Military Partner Association (AMPA) and OutServe-SLDN -- issued the following joint statement following comments made by President-elect Donald Trump's nominee for Secretary of Defense, retired General James Mattis, during confirmation hearings this morning. General Mattis indicated he will not work to reverse the current policies that allow any qualified person to serve, including LGBT people.
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December, 2016

31 Retired Military Officers Warn Of Efforts To Politicize Personnel Policy on Women & LGBT Troops

31 Retired Military Officers Warn Of Efforts To Politicize Personnel Policy on Women & LGBT Troops
WASHINGTON - November 18, 2016 -- Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military families, responded to the announcement that 31 retired military officers are warning against efforts to politicize personnel policies for minority service members, including women and LGBT troops.
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BREAKING: Anti-LGBT Amendment Stripped from Defense Bill

BREAKING: Anti-LGBT Amendment Stripped from Defense Bill
WASHINGTON - November 29, 2016 - Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military families, praised reports that an amendment was removed from the annual defense bill that could have funded anti-LGBT discrimination. 
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Department of Veterans Affairs Withdraws Plan to Allow Gender Confirmation Surgery for Transgender Veterans

Department of Veterans Affairs Withdraws Plan to Allow Gender Confirmation Surgery for Transgender Veterans
WASHINGTON - November 14, 2016 -- Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military families, released the following statement following news that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is withdrawing its proposal to provide medically necessary gender confirmation surgery for transgender veterans.
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Over 340,000 Signatures Delivered to Congress Rejecting Discrimination in Defense Bill

Over 340,000 Signatures Delivered to Congress Rejecting Discrimination in Defense Bill
WASHINGTON - November 15, 2016- More than a dozen national organizations delivered over 342,000 petition signatures to Congress today in opposition to an amendment in the annual defense bill that would fund discrimination. The petitions were delivered to the Washington offices of Sens. John McCain (R-Ariz.) and Jack Reed (D-R.I.) and Reps. Mac Thornberry (R-Texas) and Adam Smith (D-Wash.).
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November, 2016

ALARMING: Transgender Military Kid Facing Discrimination at Direction of U.S. Department of Defense Education Official

ALARMING: Transgender Military Kid Facing Discrimination at Direction of U.S. Department of Defense Education Official
WASHINGTON - October 21, 2016 – Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military families, expressed deep concern over the way a transgender student is being discriminated against by a U.S. Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) elementary school at Ramstein Air Force Base in Germany. At the direction of DoDEA District Superintendent Dr. Elizabeth Dunham – and in direct disregard of guidance issued by the U.S. Departments of Education and Justice – the transgender girl is being denied access to the restroom consistent with her gender identity.
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August, 2016

HISTORIC: US Navy To Name Ship After LGBT Rights Icon, Harvey Milk

HISTORIC: US Navy To Name Ship After LGBT Rights Icon, Harvey Milk
WASHINGTON - July 28, 2016 -- Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military families, praised the news that the U.S. Navy plans to name a ship after the LGBT rights icon and former Naval officer, Harvey Milk. According to a congressional notification signed by Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus that was obtained by USNI News, the Navy will name a planned Military Sealift Command fleet oiler USNS Harvey Milk (T-AO-206).
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July, 2016

BREAKING: Pentagon To Announce End to Transgender Military Ban on July 1st

BREAKING: Pentagon To Announce End to Transgender Military Ban on July 1st
WASHINGTON, DC - June 24, 2016 – Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military families, praised the news that the Pentagon is expected to make history on July 1st by announcing the much anticipated end to the military's ban on open service by transgender people.
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Department of Defense Celebrates LGBT Pride Month at Pentagon

Department of Defense Celebrates LGBT Pride Month at Pentagon
WASHINGTON, DC - June 8 – Today, the U.S. Department of Defense celebrated lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) Pride Month at a DoDPride celebration held at the Pentagon. The American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military families, issued the following statement in response: "Today's event was an incredibly important celebration of diversity and the strength that it brings to our nation's Armed Forces," said AMPA President Ashley Broadway-Mack, who attended the event with other AMPA military families. "But while it was a time to celebrate the tremendous progress we've made within the Department of Defense, it was also a stark reminder of the work we still have to accomplish for full LGBT equality in the military. The continued delay in lifting the ban on open service for transgender service members is frustrating and deeply disappointing for so many of our families. It's been almost a year since Secretary Carter made the historic announcement that the Pentagon would lift the ban, yet transgender service members and their families are still in limbo. These heroes have earned the right to be able to serve as their authentic selves, and we must ensure that happens.
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HISTORIC: Secretary Carter Announces End To Transgender Military Service Ban

HISTORIC: Secretary Carter Announces End To Transgender Military Service Ban
WASHINGTON - June 30, 2016 -- Today at the Pentagon, Defense Secretary Ash Carter announced a much anticipated end to the ban on open service by transgender service members. The announcement comes more than a year after Secretary Carter promised that the Department of Defense (DoD) would update the outdated regulations which prevent open service by transgender service members and the launch of a working group to assess the impact of the change and work out the details.
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June, 2016

BREAKING: VA Proposes Rule Change to Lift Ban on Gender Confirmation Surgery for Transgender Veterans

BREAKING: VA Proposes Rule Change to Lift Ban on Gender Confirmation Surgery for Transgender Veterans
WASHINGTON, DC - June 2, 2016 – Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military families, praised the news that the U.S. Department of Veterans (VA) is proposing a rule change to lift its outdated ban on gender confirmation surgery for transgender veterans.
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May, 2016

Defense Department Adds South Korea To List of Duty Stations Approved for Same-Sex Military Couples

Defense Department Adds South Korea To List of Duty Stations Approved for Same-Sex Military Couples
WASHINGTON - April 14, 2016 – Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military spouses and families, responded to the news that the Republic of Korea (South Korea) has been added to the list of duty station assignments outside of the United States approved for same-sex couples.
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April, 2016

LGBT Military Families Under Attack in North Carolina and Mississippi

LGBT Military Families Under Attack in North Carolina and Mississippi
WASHINGTON - April 5, 2016 -- Today, the American Military Partner Association, the nation's largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military spouses and their families, expressed serious concern over the legislative assaults on LGBT people in North Carolina and Mississippi. The governors of both states have shamefully signed legislation into law attacking LGBT people and their families. 
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Senate Panel Confirms Eric Fanning As Secretary of the Army

Senate Panel Confirms Eric Fanning As Secretary of the Army
Washington, DC - March 10, 2016 – Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military families, praised the news that the Senate Armed Services Committee has confirmed the first openly gay secretary of one of the U.S. military services -- Eric Fanning. President Obama's historic nomination of Fanning to serve as Secretary of the Army now heads to the full Senate for a final vote.
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February, 2016

Defense Department Proposes Rule Change to Provide Medical Benefits for Transgender Troops & Military Dependents

Defense Department Proposes Rule Change to Provide Medical Benefits for Transgender Troops & Military Dependents
WASHINGTON - February 1, 2016 - Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military families, responded to the news that the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) has proposed a new rule change that will lift the "regulatory prohibition that categorically excludes all treatment of gender dysphoria," thereby extending crucially needed medical care to transgender service members, veterans, and military family members covered under Tricare. The proposed change would not include surgical care which remains prohibited by statute at 10 U.S.C. 1079(a)(11), but would cover care such as hormone replacement therapy.
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Lambda Legal Resolves Lawsuit on Behalf of American Military Partner Association for VA Benefits for Same-Sex Spouses

Lambda Legal Resolves Lawsuit on Behalf of American Military Partner Association for VA Benefits for Same-Sex Spouses
WASHINGTON - January 20, 2016 - Today, Lambda Legal and the American Military Partner Association (AMPA) announced that they are concluding litigation against the US Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) following the VA's changes to its policies on benefits ending discrimination against veterans and their same-sex spouses.  The new policies are consistent with the June 2015 US Supreme Court decision in Obergefell that struck down marriage discrimination.
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Secretary of Defense Will Make Final Decision On Transgender Military Ban By Spring

Secretary of Defense Will Make Final Decision On Transgender Military Ban By Spring
WASHINGTON - January 14, 2016 – Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military families, responded to the news that the Pentagon is expected to announce it's decision on whether to lift the ban on transgender service members by this spring.
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December, 2015

Liberty University Singles Out LGBT Military Spouses For Denial of Tuition Discounts

Liberty University Singles Out LGBT Military Spouses For Denial of Tuition Discounts
WASHINGTON - November 30, 2015 – Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military spouses and their families, responded to news that Liberty University is singling out LGBT military spouses for denial of military tuition discounts. According to a report by Military.com's SpouseBuzz, while other military spouses receive deep discounts on tuition, LGBT military spouses are denied the discount because they are not "natural-born members of the opposite sex."
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September, 2015

FINALLY! Defense Department Adds Germany To List of Duty Stations Available to Same-Sex Military Couples

FINALLY! Defense Department Adds Germany To List of Duty Stations Available to Same-Sex Military Couples
WASHINGTON - August 20, 2015 – Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military families, received word from military officials that Germany has finally been added to the list of duty assignments outside of the United States available for same-sex couples. Previously, same-sex spouses of U.S. service members were denied "command sponsorship" to duty stations in Germany due to concerns that they were not covered under the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA). While opposite-sex spouses were able to accompany their service member to their new duty stations, same-sex spouses and their children were left behind.
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New National Survey Shows Majority of Americans Support Open Transgender Military Service

New National Survey Shows Majority of Americans Support Open Transgender Military Service
WASHINGTON - August 28, 2015 – Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military families, responded to the results of a new national survey that show a majority of Americans support open service by transgender people in the U.S. military.  The results were released by University of Illinois Springfield Survey Research Office and were part of a survey aimed at "gauging attitudes towards transgender inclusive policies in health and healthcare, K-12 education, U.S. military, and in prisons."
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Report: Military's Transgender Ban Could End By May 2016

Report: Military's Transgender Ban Could End By May 2016
Washington - August 26, 2015 – Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military families, responded to a report by USA Today that the military could officially lift its ban on transgender service by May of 2016. 
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August, 2015

UPDATED: Pentagon To Lift Transgender Military Ban

UPDATED: Pentagon To Lift Transgender Military Ban
WASHINGTON - July 13, 2015 - Today, U.S. Secretary of Defense Ash Carter announced the Pentagon will lift the ban on open and honest service by transgender service members.
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July, 2015

American Medical Association Says There is No Medical Rationale in Transgender Military Ban

American Medical Association Says There is No Medical Rationale in Transgender Military Ban
WASHINGTON, DC - June 8, 2015 - Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military families, responded to the news that the American Medical Association (AMA) passed a resolution saying there is there is no medical rationale for firing transgender personnel from the militar
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BREAKING: Navy & Marine Corps Raise Level of Authority Required To Discharge Transgender Sailors & Marines

BREAKING: Navy & Marine Corps Raise Level of Authority Required To Discharge Transgender Sailors & Marines
WASHINGTON - July 2, 2015 – Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military families, responded to the news that the Secretary of the Navy has raised the level of authority required to discharge transgender Sailors and Marines. According to the memorandum dated July, 1, 2015, "Separations initiated under the provisions of the references for service members with a diagnosis or history of gender dysphoria, who identify themselves as transgender, or who have taken steps to externalize the condition, must be forwarded to the Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Manpower and Reserve Affairs) for decision."
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Rep. Speier to Introduce Legislation to Lift Transgender Military Ban

Rep. Speier to Introduce Legislation to Lift Transgender Military Ban
WASHINGTON, DC = June 23, 2015 - Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military families, responded to the news that Rep. Jackie Speier (D-CA) plans to introduce federal legislation to lift the ban on transgender service members in the military caused by outdated regulations.
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Secretary of Defense Announces Non-Discrimination Protections For Gay & Lesbian Troops

Secretary of Defense Announces Non-Discrimination Protections For Gay & Lesbian Troops
WASHINGTON - June 9, 2015 - Today, at the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) pride month observance for the Department of Defense (DoD) at the Pentagon, Secretary Ashton Carter announced that the Department of Defense has "completed the process for updating its military equal opportunity policy to include sexual orientation, ensuring that the department, like the rest of the federal government, treats sexual orientation-based discrimination the same way it treats discrimination based on race, religion, color, sex, age, and national origin."
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Supreme Court Marriage Equality Decision Means LGBT Military Finally Have Full Access to Veterans Benefits

Supreme Court Marriage Equality Decision Means LGBT Military Finally Have Full Access to Veterans Benefits
WASHINGTON - June 26, 2015 - Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military families, responded to the news that the Supreme Court of the United States ruled in favor of nationwide marriage equality.
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VA To Extend Benefits To Same-Sex Couples Following Supreme Court Ruling

VA To Extend Benefits To Same-Sex Couples Following Supreme Court Ruling
WASHINGTON – On Monday, June 29, 2015, the VA confirmed they would begin extending benefits to legally married same-sex couples nationwide as a result of the historic marriage equality ruling by the Supreme Court last week. Previously, the VA had denied some benefits to same sex couples who lived in states where their marriages were not recognized. Last week's Supreme Court ruling negated the legal basis for those denials and the VA confirmed they are currently drafting guidance for their benefits offices to begin issuing benefits to those couples.
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June, 2015

Air Force Takes Step Towards Open Transgender Service

Air Force Takes Step Towards Open Transgender Service
WASHINGTON, DC - June 4, 2015 - Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military families, responded to the news that the U.S. Air Force has officially made a policy change regarding dismissal of transgender service members. Removal of a transgender service member from the Air Force must now be "reviewed by the Secretary of the Air Force Personnel Council for recommendation, and then to the [Air Force Review Boards Agency] AFRBA director, for decision."
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BREAKING: Pentagon to Add Non-Discrimination Protections For Gay & Lesbian Troops

BREAKING: Pentagon to Add Non-Discrimination Protections For Gay & Lesbian Troops
WASHINGTON - May 29, 2015 - Today, Washington Blade broke the news that "the Pentagon is preparing to update its Military Equal Opportunity policy to include sexual orientation as a protected class and the change could be made final as soon as the end of next month." The American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military families, praised the letter and urged Secretary Carter to take immediate action.
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Senators Call on SecDef to Update Non-Discrimination Protections to Include Gay Troops

Senators Call on SecDef to Update Non-Discrimination Protections to Include Gay Troops
WASHINGTON - May 21, 2015 - Today, BuzzFeed News broke the news that numerous Senators have signed a bi-partisan letter strongly urging Secretary of Defense Ashton Carter to update the military "equal opportunity policies across the Department of Defense (DoD) and Military Services to prevent discrimination, harassment or intimidation of service members based on sexual orientation." The American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military families, praised the letter and urged Secretary Carter to take immediate action.
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May, 2015

SCOTUS Marriage Equality Decision Will Significantly Impact Same-Sex Military Couples

SCOTUS Marriage Equality Decision Will Significantly Impact Same-Sex Military Couples
WASHINGTON - April 25, 2015 - This coming Tuesday, the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) will begin hearing oral arguments challenging state bans on marriage equality, the outcome of which could lead to nationwide marriage equality. Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military families, emphasized that the decision will significantly impact same-sex military couples who often have little to no choice as to whether or not they are stationed in a state that respects their marriage and family rights. 
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Why Are Gay & Lesbian Troops Excluded From the Military Equal Opportunity Program and Non-Discrimination Policy?

Why Are Gay & Lesbian Troops Excluded From the Military Equal Opportunity Program and Non-Discrimination Policy?
WASHINGTON - Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military spouses and their families, highlighted that although Indiana may have recently been in the nation's crosshairs over a battle encompassing non-discrimination protections for LGBT people, there's another sector of society that lacks these protections that is being completely overlooked. Its members number over 2.5 million, and they're the very people trusted to safeguard the rights and freedoms of all Americans: the United States military.
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April, 2015

Army Makes a Big Change in Discharge Policy for Transgender Soldiers

Army Makes a Big Change in Discharge Policy for Transgender Soldiers
WASHINGTON, DC - March 6, 2015 - Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of LGBT military families, responded to the news that the Army has officially made a policy change regarding dismissal of transgender service members, who are still prohibited from serving openly. Removal of a transgender service member from the Army must now be approved by the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Manpower and Reserve Affairs, rather than by local unit commanders.
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Navy's Top Enlisted Sailor Supports Open Service by Transgender Troops

Navy's Top Enlisted Sailor Supports Open Service by Transgender Troops
WASHINGTON, DC March 12, 2015 - Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of LGBT military families, responded to the report by the Navy Times that the senior enlisted sailor of the U.S. Navy - Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (AW/NAC) Mike Stevens - would support open and honest service by transgender troops if the ban caused by outdated regulations were lifted.
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TX Military Forces Takes Positive Steps to Address Issues of Processing Same-Sex Military Spouses for Federal Benefits

TX Military Forces Takes Positive Steps to Address Issues of Processing Same-Sex Military Spouses for Federal Benefits
WASHINGTON - March 25, 2015 – On Friday, March 13, 2015, three same-sex military couples were denied assistance by the federal military identification card enrollment center at Camp Mabry, the headquarters of the Texas Military Forces (TMF), near Austin, Texas. All three couples were told by the center's employee that they would not be provided service because their marriages were not recognized by the state of Texas, regardless of the fact they were seeking federal military benefits.
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Unprecedented Report Highlights Harm Military Families Suffer From Transgender Ban

Unprecedented Report Highlights Harm Military Families Suffer From Transgender Ban
WASHINGTON - March 30, 2015 – Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA) joined forces with the Transgender American Veterans Association (TAVA) to release an unprecedented report highlighting the harm that the military's transgender ban continues to inflict on transgender service members and their families. This first of its kind report focuses on the impact the outdated transgender military regulations have on the entire family and includes personal stories from transgender service members and their families.
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Veterans Spouses Equal Treatment Act Reintroduced To Extend Equal Veterans Benefits for LGBT Veterans And Their Families

Veterans Spouses Equal Treatment Act Reintroduced To Extend Equal Veterans Benefits for LGBT Veterans And Their Families
WASHINGTON - March 25, 2015 – The American Military Partner Association (AMPA) released the following statement today following the reintroduction of the Veterans Spouses Equal Treatment Act by Representative Dina Titus (D-NV) in the U.S. House of Representatives. The bipartisan legislation would change discriminatory language in Title 38 that prevents the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) from granting full access to earned veterans benefits to legally married same-sex couples living in non-marriage equality states.
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VICTORY! Texas Military Forces Spokesperson Says Refusal To Process Same-Sex Military Spouses Was 'Mistake' And Will Be

VICTORY! Texas Military Forces Spokesperson Says Refusal To Process Same-Sex Military Spouses Was 'Mistake' And Will Be
WASHINGTON - March 17, 2015 - After intervention today by representatives of the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the Texas Military Forces clarified that three same-sex couples should not have been denied assistance at the federal military identification card enrollment center at Camp Mabry, the headquarters of the Texas Military Forces, near Austin, Texas. All three couples had been turned away on March 13th after being told that they would not be provided service because their marriages were not recognized by the state of Texas. One of the couples was contacted today and given a priority appointment to enroll for their benefits and ID card.
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March, 2015

AMPA To SCOTUS: Marriage Inequality Harms Military & Veteran Families

AMPA To SCOTUS: Marriage Inequality Harms Military & Veteran Families
WASHINGTON, DC - March 3, 2015 – Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of LGBT military families, filed a joint brief to the Supreme Court of the United States in the case being considered that could lead to nationwide marriage equality. In the brief, AMPA and OutServe-SLDN argue that the uneven patchwork of states providing marriage equality harms military families, undermines national security, and harms veterans by cutting them off to earned federal benefits. The brief, on which the law firm Chadbourne & Parke serves as counsel, urges the Supreme Court to end the discrimination caused by the lack of marriage equality nationwide.
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Army Considers Change in Policy on Transgender Soldiers

Army Considers Change in Policy on Transgender Soldiers
WASHINGTON, DC - February 16, 2015 - The American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of LGBT military families, released the following statement today in response to the news that the Army is considering a policy change regarding dismissal of transgender service members, who are still prohibited from serving openly.
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Openly Gay Man Appointed as Chief of Staff for the Secretary of Defense

Openly Gay Man Appointed as Chief of Staff for the Secretary of Defense
WASHINGTON, DC - February 18, 2015- The American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation’s largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military families, released the following statement today in response to Eric Fanning's appointment as the Chief of Staff for the Secretary of Defense.
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President Obama Agrees With Defense Secretary Ashton Carter's Comments on Transgender Service

President Obama Agrees With Defense Secretary Ashton Carter's Comments on Transgender Service
WASHINGTON, DC - February 23, 2015 – Today during the daily briefing, White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest responded to a reporter's question on the President's reaction to Defense Secretary Ashton Carter's remarks on transgender service yesterday at a town hall in Kandahar, Afghanistan. According to Earnest, "The President agrees with the sentiment that all Americans who are qualified to serve should be able to serve."
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Same-Sex Married War Veteran Denied Equal Veterans Benefits by the Department of Veterans Affairs

Same-Sex Married War Veteran Denied Equal Veterans Benefits by the Department of Veterans Affairs
WASHINGTON, DC - Februry 26, 2015  – Today, the American Military Partner Association, the nation's largest organization of LGBT military families, strongly condemned a move by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), requiring a female Iraq war veteran, Melissa Perkins-Fercha, to pay back her federal veterans benefits tied to her legal wife and daughter because the state of Texas does not recognize her same-sex marriage.
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January, 2015

AMPA Statement on Nomination of Ashton Carter as Secretary of Defense

AMPA Statement on Nomination of Ashton Carter as Secretary of Defense
WASHINGTON - December 5, 2014– Today, the American Military Partner Association, the nation's largest organization for the partners, spouses, and families of America's lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) service members and veterans, issued the following statement in response to the nomination of Ashton Carter as Secretary of Defense.
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AMPA Statement on Reintroduction of the Respect for Marriage Act

AMPA Statement on Reintroduction of the Respect for Marriage Act
WASHINGTON, DC- January 6, 2015 Today, the American Military Partner Association, the nation's largest organization for the partners, spouses, and families of America's lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) service members and veterans, praised the reintroduction of the Respect for Marriage Act by Senator Feinstein in the U.S. Senate and Representatives Nadler and Ros-Lehtinen in the U.S. House of Representatives. While the U.S. Supreme Court found Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) unconstitutional, the remaining sections were not considered by the Supreme Court. The Respect for Marriage Act would fully repeal DOMA.
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List of Duty Stations Around the World Available To Same-Sex U.S. Military Couples Continues To Grow

List of Duty Stations Around the World Available To Same-Sex U.S. Military Couples Continues To Grow
WASHINGTON, DC - December 17, 2014 – This month, the list of countries where a same-sex military spouse can be sponsored by the Defense Department to join a U.S. service member for an accompanied assignment outside of the U.S. grew to 40 countries. Unfortunately for many lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military families approaching the time of year where new duty stations are often assigned, many locations remain unavailable, notably including Germany which hosts an estimated 43,000 U.S. military personnel.
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U.S. Air Force Secretary Supports Lifting Military Transgender Ban

U.S. Air Force Secretary Supports Lifting Military Transgender Ban
WASHINGTON - December 10, 2014 – Today, the American Military Partner Association, the nation's largest organization for the partners, spouses, and families of America's lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) service members and veterans, responded to the news that the Secretary of the Air Force, Deborah Lee James, supports lifting the U.S. military's current ban on service by transgender people. As reported by USA Today, Secretary James said, "From my point of view, anyone who is capable of accomplishing the job should be able to serve."
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With Major News From Justice Department, AMPA Calls on Defense Department to End Sex Discrimination Against Transgender

With Major News From Justice Department, AMPA Calls on Defense Department to End Sex Discrimination Against Transgender
WASHINGTON – Today, the Attorney General of the United States announced that the Department of Justice will treat workplace discrimination against transgender people as sex discrimination, which is illegal under the Civil Rights Act of 1964, based upon the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission's (EEOC) decision in Macy v. Holder. The American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization for the partners, spouses, and families of America's lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) service members and veterans, responded to the news by calling on the Defense Department to end its currently unjustified sex discrimination against transgender troops by lifting the ban against open and honest service.
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December, 2014

AMPA Statement on Resignation of Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel

AMPA Statement on Resignation of Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel
WASHINGTON - November 24, 2014 – Today, the American Military Partner Association, the nation's largest organization for the partners, spouses, and families of America's lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) service members and veterans, issued the following statement in response to the news that Chuck Hagel will be resigning as Secretary of Defense.
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Military Services Fail to Comply With New Defense Department Regulation on Transgender Service

Military Services Fail to Comply With New Defense Department Regulation on Transgender Service
WASHINGTON - November 26, 2014– Today, the American Military Partner Association, the nation's largest organization for the partners, spouses, and families of America's lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) service members and veterans, issued the following statement in response to a report released by the Palm Center outlining the failure of the military services to comply with new Defense Department regulations on transgender service.
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