A general in the U.S. Space Force is criticizing what she calls “anti-LGBTQ+” laws and insisting such measures can factor into her personnel decisions.
During a Pride event at the Pentagon Lt. General DeAnna Burt said, “Transformational cultural change requires leadership from the top, and we do not have time to wait.”
“Since January of this year, more than 400 anti-LGBTQ+ laws have been introduced at the state level. That number is rising and demonstrates a trend that could be dangerous for service members, their families, and the readiness of the force as a whole,” she continued.
Burt went on to share she strives to “match the person to the right job” by looking at their job experience.
“However, I also look at their personal circumstances, and their family is also an important factor,” she explained.
Burt went on:
“If the good match for a job does not feel safe being themselves and performing at their highest potential at a given location, or if their family could be denied critical health care due to the laws in that state, I am compelled to consider a different candidate, and, perhaps, less qualified.”
Watch the video below:
Space Force general DeAnna Burt says “anti-LGBTQ+” laws can affect her hiring and promotion decisions
— The Post Millennial (@TPostMillennial) June 16, 2023
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A spokesperson for the Space Force told Fox News about Burt’s comments, “To stay ahead of our pacing challenge and win in a competitive environment, leaders must identify and remove barriers facing their teams.”
“We have the top talent in the Nation, and we must enable them to perform their missions by ensuring they are not worried about the health and safety of their families,” they continued.
The official continued, “The Department of the Air Force recognizes that various laws and legislation are being proposed and passed in states across America that may affect LGBTQ Airmen, Guardians, and/or their LGBTQ dependents in different ways.”
Burt’s comments come as the Human Rights Campaign, an LGBT civil rights organization, claimed members of its community are “living in a state of emergency” in the U.S.
Additionally, over 20 states have passed laws restricting medical procedures for transgender minors.
