A decorated war hero and politician, he served in the US House of Representatives and was a strong advocate for veterans' rights. He was also a Medal of Honor recipient.
Steve May is an American politician and former Army officer who gained national attention in 1999 when the U.S. Army attempted to discharge him under the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" (DADT) policy. As an openly gay man, May's determination to serve his country while being true to himself sparked a heated debate about the discriminatory policy.
Born on November 29, 1971, in Phoenix, Arizona, May grew up in a Mormon household and was an Eagle Scout. He enrolled in the Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps in 1989 and received his commission as a U.S. Army officer in 1993. During his two-and-a-half-year stint at Fort Riley, Kansas, May managed the integration of women into an all-male platoon and left the Army with an honorable discharge in 1995.
In 1998, May ran successfully for a seat in the Arizona House of Representatives, becoming the first openly gay man to do so. His election was endorsed by the Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund, a political action committee dedicated to helping elect openly LGBT candidates to public office. May's courage in being open about his sexual orientation despite the prevailing DADT policy made him a beacon of hope for the LGBTQ+ community.
On February 3, 1999, May spoke to a committee of the Arizona House about pending legislation that would prevent local jurisdictions from providing benefits to the domestic partners of their employees. His impassioned speech, in which he declared, "I know many of you expected me to sit quietly in my office, but I cannot sit quietly in my office when another member attacks my family and attempts to steal my freedom," brought attention to the injustices faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the military.
Steve May's bravery in challenging the DADT policy contributed significantly to the eventual repeal of the law in 2010. His courage has inspired countless LGBTQ+ individuals to serve openly in the military, and his legacy continues to pave the way for a more inclusive and accepting society.
May's determination to serve his country while being true to himself has made him a champion of LGBTQ+ rights in the military. His unwavering commitment to justice and equality has earned him a place in the annals of American history.
May's stance on LGBTQ+ rights in the military is rooted in his belief that every individual deserves equal treatment and respect, regardless of their sexual orientation. His courageous stand against discrimination has inspired a generation of LGBTQ+ individuals to demand equal rights and opportunities.
Steve May's legacy extends far beyond his time in the Arizona House of Representatives. He has left an indelible mark on the history of LGBTQ+ rights in the military, and his bravery continues to inspire individuals to challenge unjust policies and demand equality.
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The 43rd President of the United States, a Republican leader who launched wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, and implemented significant tax cuts. He's also known for his response to the 9/11 attacks.
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A decorated war hero and senator, known for his bravery as a POW and his influential role in shaping US politics.
