How the Lutheran Church's (ELCA) "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy for clergy inspired President Bill Clinton's Military Policy

This letter is from the Papers of the Rev. Dr. Robert Smith (learn more below).In this letter, written in 1993, Presiding Bishop Herb Chilstrom recommends the principles of what will become President Bill Clinton's "Don't Ask, Don't Tell Policy" (1994).  Arguing that the police works well for Lutheran clergy, Chilstrom indicates that this policy is of benefit to LGB individuals.  The ELCA's policy of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" was in place from 1989-2009, though the denomination still allows individuals and communities to retain biases against LGBTQ individuals and by claiming a "bound conscience."    

The Rev. Dr. Robert H. Smith was a professor at Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary, a theologian and author of numerous books.  His papers are courtesy of the Rev. Donna Duensing.  For academic purposes please use the following citation for these primary sources:  Document, Folder, The Papers of the Rev. Dr. Robert Smith, Queerly Lutheran Archive, San Francisco, CA, Date of Document.

Documents are for personal and academic use only.  Individuals interested in publishing or reposting documents must seek permission from Pastor Megan Rohrer (pastor@gracesf.com).