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Out In National Security

@outinnationalsecurity.org
1.8K followers 1.3K following 623 posts

A non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to empowering queer national security professionals. Apply TODAY for our Leadership Development Fellowship for young professionals: shorturl.at/F12TP Deadline: May 29 OutInNationalSecurity.org

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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 27/09/2026
AB 1775 is now law. In June, we stood together in San Diego around a simple principle: no veteran left behind. Now California is delivering, helping transgender veterans come home with support for housing, health care, employment, and the transition to civilian life.
Photo of June 5 press conference at the San Diego LGBT center in front of the LGBT veterans wall of honor, with Assemblymember Chris War, a white gay man with glasses, a blue shirt, and a gray blazer, speaking at a podium
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 24/09/2026
Huge congratulations to our CEO Luke Schleusener on joining the prestigious @obamafoundation Leaders Program! We are glad the rest of the cohort is about to learn what this community already knows. Official profile: www.obama.org/programs/lea...
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 20/09/2026
We're looking forward to seeing folks this afternoon from 2:00-4:00 PM at the NY LGBT Community Center, in partnership with @equalitynewyork.bsky.social, @spartapride.bsky.social, @formergov.bsky.social, and many others!
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 15/09/2026
Fifteen years after "Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell," there’s a lot worth remembering and more work ahead. This Sunday in NYC, ONS is bringing together LGBTQ veterans, allies, and partners to connect, reflect, and share resources.
“Event flyer for ‘Generations of Service,’ an LGBTQ+ Veterans Day gathering in New York City on Sunday, September 20, from 2–4 PM at The Center, 208 West 13th Street. The event features a panel discussion and resource fair bringing together LGBTQ+ veterans, allies, and community organizations. Logos for Out in National Security and partner organizations appear along the bottom.”
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 09/09/2026
Fifteen years after the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” LGBT veterans are speaking openly in the civic spaces where communities decide whom they remember and what they owe. Our new essay for LGBT Veterans Day 2026: We Gather Together: www.outinnationalsecurity.org/2026/09/09/w...
A black-and-white photo of a multiracial crowd with one member waving an American Flag.

V-J Day Crowd by Liggett's Drug Store, Times Square, 1945. Getty.
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 07/09/2026
On Labor Day, we looked at a part of LGBTQ history that is also national security history: what happened when queer employees found one another, compared experiences, and organized inside the institutions they served. www.outinnationalsecurity.org/2026/09/07/w...
High Tech Gays at a California Pride Festival, late 1980s.
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 31/08/2026
Army Cyber Command estimated that retaining an advanced cyber operator for six years cost $92,000. Replacing one cost about $400,000. A vacancy can be created overnight. Experience cannot.
Army Cyber cost chart
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 31/08/2026
The Pentagon says recruiting is hard, retention matters, and trained personnel are expensive to replace. So what readiness gain comes from accelerating the discharge of transgender servicemembers already trained and serving? Our new analysis www.outinnationalsecurity.org/2026/08/31/t...
Graphic reading "Qualified to Serve, Rushed Out"
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 27/08/2026
DoD says unwanted sexual contact fell in FY25. But the public can no longer tell whether LGBTQIA+ servicemembers shared in that progress. That’s the transparency gap we’re flagging today: www.outinnationalsecurity.org/2026/08/27/d...
Image with ONS logo and text reading "Policy Analysis LGBTQIA+ servicemembers Out of View" and the subhead "DoD's FYT25 sexual assault report no longer provides comparable pbulic data on sexual and gender minorities." 

"August 27, 2026 I Out in National Security"
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 18/08/2026
The CIA trained @juliacurlee.bsky.social, a 2026 ONS Fellow, to tell hard truths. Then it taught her to become invisible. When public servants must choose between integrity, family, and service, institutions lose the expertise the nation’s security depends on. Read her essay in @theatlantic.com
"The Wrong Kind of American"

"I'd weighed my family's health insurance against two sentences of solidarity and chosen to surrender my integrity.

The agency that had taught me to tell hard truths was now teaching me to be invisible. 

It was time to go."

Julia Curlee
2026 ONS Fellow
"The Wrong Kind of American" I "The Atlantic"
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 12/08/2026
Our co-founder Luke Schleusener joined Anna DeShawn on Queer News to talk about the NDAA and how ONS and our partners are fighting back against the Trump Administration on behalf of LGBTQIA+ servicemembers and our community. Listen to the full episode here: shorturl.at/wpDBj
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 07/08/2026
On Purple Heart Day, we honor the servicemembers wounded in defense of our country, including LGBTQIA+ veterans whose courage and sacrifice have too often gone unrecognized. Their service is part of our national story. We remain committed to honoring the contract our country made with them.
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 07/08/2026
LT Jezel Huston reflected on the 236th birthday of the Coast Guard this week, a service that is "people forward" with a long history of attracting diverse talent including from the LGBTQIA+ community. Jezel is also the Chief of Staff for ONS. The Coast Guard traces its founding to Aug. 4, 1790
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 23/07/2026
The House rejected an effort to write the trans military ban into law, while adopting provisions affecting TRICARE and DoD schools. Our new brief explains what passed, what failed, and what comes next. www.outinnationalsecurity.org/2026/07/23/t...
Title card for blogpost about the NDAA, showing the US Capitol at night
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 30/06/2026
The House Rules Committee has taken an important procedural step on the FY27 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Several amendments affecting LGBTQ servicemembers, military families, and Department of Defense schools are now positioned for House floor consideration. A thread. 🧵
An Image of the US Capital at Dusk with an branded overlay regarding this year's NDAA
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 26/06/2026
ONS Contributor Major General Tammy Smith (Ret.) reflects on the 251st birthday of the U.S. Army and her 35 years of service: "The security of our nation should always be a higher priority than the insecurity of our prejudices"
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 24/06/2026
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 05/06/2026
Proud to join @asmchrisward.bsky.social in support of CA Assembly Bill 1775. This bold legislation supports service members and veterans impacted by President Trump’s policy banning transgender individuals from military service. California is stepping up!
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 29/05/2026
Get your applications in today by midnight! Encourage rising stars in your network to apply for ONS's flagship leadership development programs. Link below.
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 25/05/2026
"To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die" - Thomas Campbell
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 22/05/2026
Our Co-Founder Luke and Linda Thomas Greenfield, former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, at the recent @fp4america.bsky.social Leadership Summit in DC. The United States has both a moral and strategic imperative to fight for equality globally, and we look forward to continuing that fight.
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 06/05/2026
Out in National Security is proud to share that our CEO and cofounder, @lfschleusener.bsky.social, has again been recognized by @washingtonian.com, among the people shaping national security policy in Washington. washingtonian.com/2026/05/05/w...
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 27/04/2026
ONS is inviting YOU or any rising stars in your network to apply to our flagship leadership development program! Fellows will: -Refine their career development skills -Enhance their personal branding -Expand their personal & professional networks Applications are open through May 29. Link below.
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 22/04/2026
Join ONS this Saturday for our spring fundraiser in DC to launch the NEW Equal Service Working Group. You'll here from former USAF Secretary Frank Kendall and other NatSec leaders in an private, relaxed setting. Link in bio and below. We hope to see you there! partiful.com/e/EGkLVOKron...
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 16/04/2026
REMINDER - Join us TONIGHT in Hell’s Kitchen for “Good Work and Good Company", our 2nd NYC social & professional event. Come ready to meet new friends and reconnect with old ones. Bring your ideas on how ONS can help you, or how you can help ONS. Location: The Dickens - 783 8th Ave, New York, NY
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 15/04/2026
On April 25, we're hosting our spring fundraiser in DC to launch the NEW Equal Service Working Group. You'll here from former USAF Secretary Frank Kendall and other NatSec leaders. We hope you'll join us! Address and details provided after RSVP, please email development@outinnationalsecurity.org
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 31/03/2026
On International Trans Day of Visibility, we encourage everyone who stands for equality to do what you can to raise awareness. That could be mentioning Trans Day of Visibility to your friends or family, like and share this post, or getting in touch with ONS to learn how you can be more involved.
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 19/03/2026
Please join ONS next Thursday, March 26 for an informal and lively discussion over drinks with Professor Abe Newman on the future of global politics as the era of “Neo-Royalism." Kiki - 915 U St NW, Washington, DC 5:30 P.M. - 7:00 P.M. RSVP Here: rb.gy/fy7klv
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 02/03/2026
ONS invites you TOMORROW (3/3/26) for a relaxed, gender-inclusive happy hour celebrating Women's History Month at Her Diner, co-hosted with GATT DC & WIIT. All are welcome, feel free to bring a colleague or friend. Cheers and see you there! 📍 Her Diner, Washington, DC 📅 March 3 | 5:30–7:30 PM
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 13/02/2026
For folks in DC, ONS warmly invites you to a casual happy hour next Tuesday (2/17) to connect with fellow development & humanitarian professionals. Allies and friends are welcome. First round on us! RSVP: shorturl.at/hYKSQ
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 12/02/2026
@lfschleusener.bsky.social talks to Love Rutledge of the Fed Upward pod about how ONS supports LGBTQIA+ federal workers with programing and community, especially those being targeted by the administration. It's a great conversation (in under 10 minutes!) which you can find here: shorturl.at/X4LlS
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 10/02/2026
Looking for a break from the chaotic news with something truly personal and meaningful? Our Co-Founder @lfschleusener.bsky.social was featured on an episode of "This Queer Book Saved My Life" about the life of civil and gay rights pioneer Bayard Rustin. Listen here: shorturl.at/TbFqh
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 06/02/2026
For some lighter weekend listening, our Co-Founder @lfschleusener.bsky.social was featured on Gayish, a fantastic podcast Esquire says brings “a sense of thoughtfulness along with humor", as Luke guides them through NatSec news and impacts on our community Listen here: shorturl.at/RuWL1
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 29/01/2026
A reminder: Join us this Saturday @ 2pm at the U.S. Botanical Gardens 🌿🌸🌻 SIGNUP HERE: shorturl.at/2vGJs
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 28/01/2026
Hey folks, Luke here. I’m sharing a brief look-ahead for ONS in 2026, and how you can be part of the movement. We're grounding our efforts in a simple framework: Protect. Grow. Build.
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 28/01/2026
Chase away mid-winter gloom with ONS during an afternoon visit to the U.S. Botanic Garden. 🌿 Nothing says resilience like verdant plants and colorful flowers in January. And yes, it is wonderfully warm inside the gardens. 😎🌴🌸 Families are very welcome. Kids, partners, and chosen family included.
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 21/01/2026
Chase away mid-winter gloom with fun and fellowship by joining ONS leaders at the US Botanical Garden. It's nice and warm inside 😎🌴🌸 When: Sat, Jan 31 - Meet at 2:00pm Where: Gather at Le Bon Cafe (210 2nd St SE) before walking together to the garden Sing up here: tinyurl.com/jrdhp2th
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 08/01/2026
ONS co-founder @sskelly.bsky.social kickstarts the day with a vital keynote on the past, present, and future of #LGBTQIAPlus military service and veterans care.
A red headed trans woman behind a podium in a gray suit with her hands open against a white wall
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 19/12/2025
It was a BIG year for ONS. Here's our greatest hits and favorite songs of 2025 !
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 18/12/2025
As part of our spotlight series, Out Leader Alum Erik Lin-Greenberg has a fantastic new book called Remote Revolution! Erik provides a preview, and for more details the book is currently available with a pretty big discount from Cornell University Press (44% off) with the discount code: 09WINTER
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 12/12/2025
Hear directly from Luke in under 2 minutes for the most critical provisions LGBTQI+ service members and vets need to know about the NDAA passed this week by the House.
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 02/12/2025
On Giving Tuesday, I'm asking you personally to consider supporting ONS. We're fighting for LGBTQ+ service members and veterans every day by pushing back on discriminatory policies, developing a new generation of leaders, and expanding our community outreach. Every donation makes a difference!
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 01/12/2025
Today is World AIDS Day. We remember those we lost to HIV/AIDS, honor everyone who fought for care and dignity, and stand with all who continue that work now.
World AIDS Day graphic with a red ribbon over a faint world map, text reads ‘World AIDS Day, December 1.'
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 27/11/2025
To our wonderful community, Happy Thanksgiving from everyone at Out In National Security
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 20/11/2025
As we honor the sacrifices of generations of trans servicemembers, their bravery inspires us to do everything we can to protect trans veterans today. That's why ONS launched the Transgender Veterans Toolkit, a set of proven policy recommendations for state governments. Learn more: lnkd.in/gXFMYeQe
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 20/11/2025
Folks, don't forget to join us tomorrow night for Karaoke at Dupont Italian Kitchen in DC, starting at 8:00 PM
Interior, DIK Bar
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 12/11/2025
Exciting news! We’re partnering with @americanprogress.bsky.social to launch the Transgender Veterans Toolkit—a practical, state-focused resource for policymakers If you work on state policy, know folks who do, or want to be part of the solution, SHARE this video. Learn more here: lnkd.in/gXFMYeQe
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 05/11/2025
We're happy to host a virtual Career Pivot Panel from 6:00 - 7:30 PM ET on Monday, November 10, 2025. Join us to hear from our panelists, who have built expertise in diverse fields as career coaches. RVSP here and we'll see you there. docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1F...
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 21/10/2025
Feeling the impact of the shutdown? Need community and caffeine? ☕ Join us this Thursday for our ONS Furloughed Coffee Hour, a casual space to connect, share, and support one another. 📅 Thursday, Oct 23 | 11 AM–1 PM ET 📍 Doubles | 3118 Georgia Ave NW, DC
Feeling the impact of the shutdown? Need community and caffeine? ☕
Join us this Thursday for our ONS Furloughed Coffee Hour — a casual space to connect, share, and support one another.

📅 Thursday, Oct 23 | 11 AM–1 PM ET
📍 Doubles | 3118 Georgia Ave NW, DC

All LGBTQIA+ professionals across the national security community are welcome.

#LGBTQIA #PublicService #DC #CommunityCare
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Out In National Security @outinnationalsecurity.org · 15/10/2025
At Impact Maryland in Baltimore today, leaders from government, education, and business came together to talk about service, resilience, and the strength of community. #OutInNatSec #ImpactMaryland #PublicService #LGBTQIA
text:
“Impact Maryland conference stage with blue lighting and ‘Impact Maryland’ branding.”
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