Breaking the Silence: An Oral History of LGBTQ Veterans and Service Members is a groundbreaking film chronicling the lives and experiences of five LGBTQ Oregonians who served their country with honor — even though official military policy sought to prohibit them from doing so.

Breaking the Silence tells the story of our nation’s military that you haven’t heard, one in which lesbian, gay and transgender service members faced not only the risks that are common to those who serve, but also the risk of discovery, disgrace and even prosecution, simply because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. At great risk to themselves, their careers and their families, these courageous men and women chose to serve anyway, in silence.

Now, for the first time, these brave veterans and service members are breaking their silence and sharing their incredible stories of courage, perseverance and sacrifice.