Why I will be marching at the National Equality March

This weekend is the National Equality March, and I am proud to be among thousands who will be marching for full fledged LGBTQ equality. I have several reasons for why I will be marching but in the end it all boils down to how I think LGBTQ America is sick and tired of blatant discrimination in public, in the work force, and at home. In particular, I have experienced firsthand what it feels like to be discriminated against just because of my sexual orientation.

Last year, I was a hard working midshipman at The George Washington University's Naval ROTC. Becoming a naval officer had always been a dream of mine and I felt honored to be working towards that dream. However, several months into school two of my fellow midshipmen reported to my commanding officer that they had seen me kiss my boyfriend. The next week I was called into my CO's office to discuss the situation and within three months I was involuntarily disenrolled. My performance as a midshipman was not even factored into the decision to disenroll me. As a result of the antiquated and discriminatory Don't Ask, Don't Tell policy my command was forced to separate me from the organization that I had devoted so much to.

This is why I am marching both Saturday and Sunday. On Saturday, GW will be hosting a Student Driven Flash Protest against the Don't Ask, Don't Tell policy. If you haven't already, please text the word "NOH8" to 313131 and sign up to receive the text for when and where the protest will be! Don't Ask, Don't Tell is an archaic law that has hurt over 13,000 servicemembers since its inception. We need full equality in all 50 states now.

I look forward to marching with you,

Todd Belok