Quigley Statement on House Passage of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell' Repeal Amendment

Statement

Tonight, Congressman Mike Quigley (D-IL) issued the following statement after the House of Representatives passed an amendment which would repeal the discriminatory policy of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" (DADT). The amendment is part of the National Defense Authorization Act (H.R. 5136), which is expected to be considered by the House tomorrow.

"It was with great pride and tremendous conviction that I voted today against bigotry and division and the end of Congress' support of this morally repugnant policy known as "Don't Ask, Don't Tell.'

Let us remember that this is every bit as important to our national security as it is our civil rights. Since its inception 17 years ago, this nonsensical practice has cost us precious lives and valuable soldiers from the Balkans to Afghanistan. When we think about how many mission-critical troops and translators were cast aside by this policy, we remember that "Don't Ask' has undermined our national defense and unequivocally made the United States less safe.

I look forward to the day when the armed services permanently conclude this unfortunate chapter in our military history and our faith in equality and commitment to security can together take a giant leap forward."

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