Lt. Dan Choi Breaks Down

Weighed by growing heartache and his persistent desire to repeal Don't Ask Don't Tell.

Andrew Sullivan from Dan Choi:

I wanted you to know because you are important to me and I think you can explain my situation best to those in our community who may be still interested. I was involuntarily committed to the Brockton MA Veterans Hospital Physchiatric Ward on Friday Morning after experiencing a breakdown and anxiety attack. ...

I did not initially want to publicize this but I now realize it is critical for our community to know several things: veterans gay or straight carry human burdens. Activists share similar burdens, no activist should be portrayed as super human, and the failures of government and national lobbying carry consequences far beyond the careers and reputations of corporate leaders, elected officials, high powered lobbyists, or political elites.

They ruin lives. My breakdown was a result of a cumulative array of stressors but there is no doubt that the composite betrayals felt on Thursday, by elected leaders and gay organizations as well as many who have exploited my name for their marketing purposes, have added to the result. I am certain my experience is not an isolated incident within the gay veteran community.

At the same time, those who have been closest to me know that I truly appreciate their gracious help and mentorship. I am indebted to their hospitality and leadership.

As Sullivan writes "the view will be better soon." Choi has been tirelessly drawing attention to the injustice that is Don't Ask Don't Tell and through that has exposed over and over again the civil rights denied to the LGBT community. Those who continually block progress will be remembered as being on the wrong side of history. They might have their small victories here and there, but it is only a matter of time. If it's any consolation history will not look upon them fondly. They won't be remembered as heroes like Choi, but rather short-sighted and bigoted.

Here's wishing Lt. Dan Choi a quick recovery and much deserved rest.

I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

Update: Congress passed the standalone repeal of DADT today. Senate get your shit together and end this abhorrent policy. Thanks.