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SIS: The Perry Watkins Story
Gays in the Military
| Length: | 52 min |
| Released: | 1997 |
| Ages: |
College Adult |
Buy Online Streaming
This groundbreaking documentary explores the explosive issue of gays in the military. It examines the case of Perry J. Watkins, the first openly gay man to defeat the ban against gays in the military. The case established a powerful legal precedent that will act as an inspiration to the gay and black communities. His story is funny and compelling and sheds light on the social, political and historical context of the lesbian and gay movement.
Drafted in 1968, Perry Watkins served fifteen years in the U.S. Army as an openly gay man who even did female impersonations on base, to entertain the troops. In 1982, he was discharged under the provisions that ban homosexuals from serving in the Armed Forces. With the help of the American Civil Liberties Union, Sgt. Watkins fought for reinstatement for nine years. In the end, the United States Supreme Court ruled in his favor and refused to hear the Army's appeal.
Drafted in 1968, Perry Watkins served fifteen years in the U.S. Army as an openly gay man who even did female impersonations on base, to entertain the troops. In 1982, he was discharged under the provisions that ban homosexuals from serving in the Armed Forces. With the help of the American Civil Liberties Union, Sgt. Watkins fought for reinstatement for nine years. In the end, the United States Supreme Court ruled in his favor and refused to hear the Army's appeal.
"An intriguing selection because of both the topic and Watkins himself." Booklist
American Psychological Association, 1997
Silver Plaque, Chicago International Film Festival, 1995
Best Video, San Francisco Lesbian and Gay Film Festival, 1995
Lesbian and Gay Festivals, Toronto, New York, Milan, 1995
Silver Plaque, Chicago International Film Festival, 1995
Best Video, San Francisco Lesbian and Gay Film Festival, 1995
Lesbian and Gay Festivals, Toronto, New York, Milan, 1995
