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Lesbians, Gays Facing Severe Harassment In Israel’s Military

16 August 2011
by Bridgette P. LaVictoire

A brief report out of Israel underlines the need for a clear policy with regards to the repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell and the need for a non-discrimination policy. Forty percent of lesbian and gay soldiers in the Israel Defense Forces have said that they faced verbal abuse from within the ranks and another four percent say that they were physically abused.

What is more, 45% of the respondents of the survey done by the Israel Gay Youth organization responded that they had heard homophobic remarks frequently or very frequently within their units. Fifty-nine percent of soldiers in combat units reported that this occurred.

The survey consisted of 364 lesbian and gay soldiers in the IDF or who had just retired. Sixty-three percent had come out to their family, but thirty-two had not. The IDF has so far told news reporters that all abuse claims are handled in the appropriate manner.

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