Repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell

Floor Speech

Mr. POLIS. Madam Speaker, I just returned from the signing of the repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell. The President spoke wisely and strongly and welcomed those who were discharged under the Don't Ask, Don't Tell policy to consider reenlisting.

President Obama said:

``There will never be a full accounting of the heroism demonstrated by gay Americans in service to this country.'' He continued, ``As the first generation to serve openly in our armed services, you will stand for all those who came before you, and you will serve as role models for all those who come after you.''

Madam Speaker, today is an important day, not just for gay and lesbian members of the military, but to all of us who are gay or lesbian, to our families, to our friends, for they all know that today we hold our heads a little higher as Americans. We are closer to equal treatment under the law, which is all we've ever asked for.

Our government will no longer be an instrument of discrimination against us, and all America will see and be told of the patriotism of the gay and lesbian Americans who proudly defend a country that today is one step closer to considering us equal.

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