Metro Weekly

Memphis Marine says gay community ”shocked into action”

“It felt like somebody had violated the honor and commitment that we as military veterans feel about our service…. All my brothers and sisters in uniform who are part of the gay community who aren’t able to speak for themselves…. The billboards will be put back up.”

Tim Smith a US Marine who was featured in a visibility campaign for the Memphis Gay and Lesbian Community Center in Tennessee. Just days after being posted in five downtown spots, the billboard that featured Smith and the slogan “I’m gay and I protected your freedom” was completely torn down. KLTV reports that he was honorably discharged after a military minister outed him. (KLTV)

Support Metro Weekly’s Journalism

These are challenging times for news organizations. And yet it’s crucial we stay active and provide vital resources and information to both our local readers and the world. So won’t you please take a moment and consider supporting Metro Weekly with a membership? For as little as $5 a month, you can help ensure Metro Weekly magazine and MetroWeekly.com remain free, viable resources as we provide the best, most diverse, culturally-resonant LGBTQ coverage in both the D.C. region and around the world. Memberships come with exclusive perks and discounts, your own personal digital delivery of each week’s magazine (and an archive), access to our Member's Lounge when it launches this fall, and exclusive members-only items like Metro Weekly Membership Mugs and Tote Bags! Check out all our membership levels here and please join us today!