Editor,

My name is Delia Pierce and I’m an LGBTQ+ ally. What does it mean to be an ally to that community? Simply put, an ally is an individual who stands up for a person or group that is targeted and discriminated against, like so many are in the LGBTQ+ community. I am especially attuned to the prejudices displayed in the military, as I know firsthand these stories through my military friends here on Whidbey.

I wear my Pride pin as I stand besides my good friend Trish Rose, the first openly LGBTQ+ officer to attain the rank of major general. I wear my pin for Ret. Army Col. Grethe Cammermeyer, who worked tirelessly over 20 years for the repeal of the “don’t ask don’t tell” policy and won the right for all gay service members to no longer have to suffer and serve in silence. For a more historical perspective, I wear my pin for Alan Turing who broke the German code that ended the war in Nazi Germany in WWII.

When other people in other countries see us working together across different races, gender, religious and sexual orientations, it speak volumes about our democracy and that is something we all care about deeply and passionately. These are just a few examples, there is a long history of LGBTQ plus individuals, some serving in uniform, some in civilian clothes, but all working towards the success of military missions. They served proudly and honorably. Never questioning the love, loyalty and patriotism they feel towards their country. They deserve our respect.

I invite you to join me in supporting all our military troops including LGBTQ+ military men and women.

Delia Pierce

Oak Harbor