Photo courtesy of autostraddle.

Today, Lt. Dan Choi, who was honorably discharged under Don't Ask, Don't Tell, re-enlisted in the Marine Corps. Above is part of his application. It reads: "I was discharged in 7/2010 from the US Army because I told the truth about my sexual orientation and refused to lie about my cherished lover and partner. I do not intend to lie about my identity or family in any portion of my service."

In commemoration of Spirit Day, we're posting this amazing video of Choi with some background on his journey to be true to himself and his love despite a job, community and country that refuses to let us express our inner truths.

Dan Choi - Don't Tell, Martha! from The Moth on Vimeo.

So what if you're straight? This still affects you. This is about freedom, one of the most essential freedoms: the freedom to love. The situation is different, but we are still reminded of Niemöller's words:

They came first for the Communists,
and I didn't speak up because I wasn't a Communist.

Then they came for me
and by that time no one was left to speak up.

Speak up. Or read more about Spirit Day and ways to show your support.

Video via Skibinskipedia.