Cindy L. Abel

Surviving the Silence

Cindy L. Abel

Years before “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” Col. Patsy Thompson was forced to expel Army hero Col. Margarethe Cammermeyer for being a lesbian. What no one knew was that Thompson was a lesbian, too. The way Thompson handles the military trial, however, leads to Cammermeyer’s reinstatement via federal court and eventual change in military policy. While Cammermeyer’s memoir was adapted as a 1995 television movie by Barbra Streisand, Thompson’s story remained a secret until now. In addition to revealing history, Surviving the Silence explores Thompson’s life with now-wife Barbara Brass. They candidly share how they wrestled with heart-wrenching choices in public and in private, hiding their relationship,and struggling to protect their love, while preserving Patsy’s career — and how they emerged to become vibrant activists later in life.

Breaking Through

Cindy L. Abel

Tammy Baldwin, Barney Frank

In Breaking Through, openly LGBT elected officials - including the first openly gay US Senator, Tammy Baldwin - share their stories of self-doubt and triumph over multiple barriers, revealing a deeply personal, rarely-seen side of politicians and gay people. As they show what is possible, they give hope to struggling people from all walks of life.