In September 2007, 19-year-old Army Spc Bethany “Skyler” James left Fort Campbell near Louisville, Kentucky, to seek refuge in Canada after hearing horror stories from fellow soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. “I just wanted to let everybody know, that if you are in the military and you’ve been thinking, why am I putting up with this? You don’t have to put up with it.” An “out” lesbian, Skyler was ridiculed daily by the other soldiers and even received hate letters.
Queer war resister leaves US Army over homophobia
Ariel Troster, Capital Xtra. October 16, 2007
“Courage to Resist has helped individuals who have taken brave stands, has been an important bridge between anti-war soldiers and civilians, and has helped both publicize and build the critical component of soldier resistance in ending war.”
