[pnj101]

Hi! My name is Pepe N. Johnson. I am Deputy Regional Vice President of American Veterans for Equal Rights (AVER). Our organization is made of GLBTQ veterans and allies. We are recognized by the Department of Veterans Affairs and we are a 501(c)3 non-profit. Our mission is to educate the GLBTQ community, our fellow veterans, and the general public about Don't Ask Don't Tell and the service of GLBTQ Americans in our military.

Currently we trying to recruit more members and establish more chapters throughout America. I am also looking for folks who are willing to speak about their experiences in the military. If you are interested in learing more, you can visit our national website at www.aver.us. You can also contact me at pnj101@yahoo.com.

AVER works closely with other organizations, such as Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN), The Military Education Initiative (MEI), and the Military Community Services Network(MCSN). As a 501(c)3 educational/awareness non-profit, we educate and create awareness opportunities for the GLBTQ military and veteran communities. SLDN actively lobbies Congress and AVER members regularly volunteer to assist SLDN on Capitol Hill and represent SLDN at various pride events across America.

According to the Urban Institute, there are approximately 65,000 GLBTQ individuals currently serving in uniform. They also report that there are more than one million GLBTQ veterans in the United States today! If you are a GLBTQ veteran or active duty member, please contact me or visit our website. Get involved today to speak on behalf of those who are serving in silence!

Thank you.