Congresswoman Richardson Applauds the Repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" at House Signing Ceremony

Press Release

On November 30th, the Pentagon released a landmark study that recommended the end of the military's "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" (DADT) policy, concluding that the vast majority of American troopers were not affected by the sexual orientation of their peers and that DADT deprived the military of thousands of potential recruits. In one of the largest surveys ever conducted across all branches of military service, the Pentagon concluded that the repeal of DADT would not affect troop morale or impede our national security strategy. It counseled against delay, advising that the policy would most likely be struck down in a judicial ruling, and that the best course of action is a responsible transition sanctioned by Congress.

"I believe that all Americans willing to risk their lives in the defense of our country and obey its laws should be allowed to do so," wrote Congresswoman Richardson in a floor statement supporting the repeal. "Both our military and civilian leaders support the repeal of DADT. It is our responsibility to ensure that this change is initiated at a gradual, manageable pace so as to avoid any unnecessary disruption."

The Congresswoman praised the sponsor of the bill, Representative Patrick Murphy, for his dedication to ensuring equal rights for American troops and his own service as a soldier in the Army. She spoke with three service members who were unfairly discharged under DADT: Sgt. 1st Class Stacy Vasquez, U.S. Army; Lt. Col. Victor Fehrenbach, U.S. Air Force; and Maj. Mike Almy, U.S. Air Force. The Congresswoman believes that depriving the armed forces of qualified, patriotic troops during a time when they are most needed does a great disservice to the security of the nation and the sanctity of America's ideals.

The Congresswoman also addressed those who opposed the repeal, stating that, "The claim that repealing DADT is "social engineering' that will undermine morale and erode the fighting force of our nation's military is refuted by the empirical study conducted by the Pentagon." She went on to note that, "Similar arguments were raised in opposition to racial integration and the enlistment of women in the armed services. The critics were wrong then and they are wrong now!"

President Obama signed the bill into law on Wednesday, December 22nd, thus formally abolishing the policy and allowing the Department of Defense to begin its planned transition. A detailed plan for successfully removing DADT from the military code of conduct was included alongside the Pentagon study.

"In the 17 years since DADT was adopted, there has been a remarkable change in public opinion regarding the acceptance of gays and lesbians serving in the armed forces," said the Congresswoman. "This change reflects on the evolving attitudes of the country as a whole, and I am honored to stand on the side of justice, equality, and respect for all Americans."

Congresswoman Richardson is a Democrat from California's 37th Congressional District. She is a member of the House Committees on Transportation & Infrastructure and Homeland Security and is chair of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Emergency Communications, Preparedness and Response. Her district includes Long Beach, Compton, Carson, Watts, Willowbrook and Signal Hill.

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