OutServe/SLDN (OS-SLDN) Executive Director Allyson Robinson was fired after a board coup, according to a Bilerico Project item.
Robinson, who headed the military group for only nine months, was the only transgender leader of a major LGBT organization that is not specifically trans-related.
In reaction to the firing, the organization’s entire senior staff resigned. Those individuals included Director of External Engagement Zeke Stokes, Director of Chapter and Member Services Gary Espinas, and Legal and Public Policy Director David McKean. Two board members also left.
Robinson subsequently posted a statement on a website for OutServe Magazine saying she’ll stay on with the group,but has decided on her “own accord” at a later time to step down, according to the Washington Blade.
Now, Bilerico has reported that OutServe-SLDN chapter leaders have locked board co-chair Josh Seefried out of the organization’s Facebook page. In addition, they have posted a statement demanding his resignation over the board’s handling of Robinson’s forced departure.
Part of the statement reads, “OutServe-SLDN’s mission of full equality in the military was set back by the abrupt attempt to dismiss Executive Director Allyson Robinson. The cause was attributed to the current financial state of the organization, but that crisis was never disclosed to the general membership, nor was a call to action asking for help.
“This entire episode has damaged OS-SLDN’s reputation as a leader in the LGBT community and as an advocate for the transgender military community. Donors and sponsors have indicated that Allyson’s loss makes them think twice about contributing to our organization. The loss of key board members and staff who resigned in protest due to the Board’s method of approaching Allyson has damaged OS-SLDN’s operational capability.”