A Few Good Gays: The Gendered Compromises behind Military Inclusion

The US military has changed its gender and sexuality policy over the last decade, but it still resist trans inclusion and the presence of women on the front lines. Cati Connell identifies the homonormative bargain that underwrites these uneven patterns of reception, which comes with significant concessions and exacerbates race, class, and gender inequality.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 312 pages
Publication date: 17 January 2023
Publisher: University of California Press

The US military has undergone a significant shift in gender and sexuality policy over the past decade, marked by the repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell," the removal of restrictions on women in combat, and the exclusion of transgender individuals. Contrary to initial expectations, servicemembers have largely embraced cisgender LGB individuals, yet they continue to vehemently resist the inclusion of trans people and the presence of women on the front lines. Many perceive the embodied "deficiencies" of cisgender women and trans individuals of all genders as a threat to others and the nation as a whole.

In her book, "The Homonormative Bargain," Cati Connell explores the underlying homonormative bargain that shapes these uneven patterns of reception. This bargain entails significant concessions in the pursuit of sexual equality, perpetuating and even exacerbating race, class, and gender inequality. Even the widespread support for open LGB service is highly conditional, revocable upon violation of the bargain. Despite the rhetoric of inclusivity, the military has, in practice, made room only for a select few "good gays," while excluding all others.

This book raises important questions about the goal of equal access and the path taken to achieve it. Connell analyzes inclusion as a social movement aspiration and highlights the steep price it exacts through the continued abjection of queered Others, both at home and abroad. The military's policies and practices have had far-reaching consequences for the LGBTQ+ community and for broader society as a whole.

As we reflect on the past decade of policy changes and consider the future, it is essential to address the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community and to work towards a more inclusive and equitable society for all. This requires a commitment to challenging homonormative norms, promoting diversity and inclusivity in the military, and advocating for the rights and well-being of all individuals, regardless of gender or sexuality.

Weight: 408g
Dimension: 229 x 152 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520382695