Update on "Closeted by the Press"

A follow-up on this story ("Closeted by the Press"). From Deborah Howell of WaPo:

The Post was right to be cautious, but there was enough evidence -- particularly of Rogers's feelings about "don't ask, don't tell" -- to warrant quoting his friends and adding that dimension to the story of his life. The story would have been richer for it.

And there are many reasons to include the information on Rogers' sexual orientation:

Sharon Alexander, director of legislative affairs for the Servicemembers Legal Defense Network, was a friend of Rogers and lobbies for the repeal of "don't ask, don't tell." She ultimately concluded that he would have wanted "that part of his story to be told to help move the issue of repeal forward."

Kevin Naff, editor of the Blade, said in an e-mail, "It's a double standard to report basic facts about straight subjects like marital status, while actively suppressing similar information about gay subjects. It was clear that Maj. Rogers led as openly gay a life as was possible, given his military service. He worked for a gay rights organization, had gay friends and patronized D.C.-area gay clubs. It's unfortunate The Post . . . chose not to present a full picture of this brave man's life."

The man was an activist, for crying out loud.

Credit to Howell -- maybe we can hope that someone's attitudes will change when they realize that they're the ones contributing to the idea that being gay is shameful.