The Log Cabin Republicans have been working for six years to challenge the policy in federal court, and finally this week they got their chance to begin their case in a California federal court. The group plans is arguing that the ban on homosexuals openly serving in the armed services violates the due process and free speech sections of the Constitution.

 

The trial follows a decision only days ago by a Boston federal judge who struck down a major part of the Defense of Marriage Act as it applies to Massachusetts. Justice Department lawyers are expected to appeal the ruling, even though President Barack Obama opposes that anti-homosexual law as well.

-Noel Brinkerhoff

 

'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' Federal Court Case Set to Start (by Ed O’Keefe, Washington Post)

Log Cabin's Opening Statement (by Daniel Woods)

DADT Trial Begins Today (by Andrew Harmon and Michelle Garcia, Advocate.com)

Frequently Asked Questions on Log Cabin Republicans v. United States of America (Log Cabin Republicans)