The Strange History of Don't Ask, Don't Tell

This documentary delves into the legislative history of the 1993 "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy, which mandated that sexual orientation be a taboo subject in the U.S. military. It outlines the experiences of military officers and the social politics surrounding LGBT rights within the armed forces. The runtime of 85 minutes provides a focused examination of the consequences faced by over 13,000 service members who were discharged under this policy before its repeal in 2011.

Featuring prominent figures such as Carl Levin, John McCain, Gore Vidal, and Joe Lieberman, this film offers insight into the legislative debates and societal attitudes that shaped the policy. Produced by HBO Documentary Films, it stands as an important resource for understanding the evolution of military policies regarding sexual orientation and the broader implications for LGBT rights in America. Collectors of historical and documentary films will find its content significant for both personal archives and educational purposes.