Congress Repeals "Don't Ask, Don't Tell"; Congresswoman McCollum Applauds End to Discrimination in the Armed Forces

Press Release

This month, the House of Representatives and the Senate swiftly repealed the discriminatory "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy, which forbids homosexual members of the military from serving openly. Many members of the military - including Defense Secretary Robert Gates and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mike Mullen - have called for an end to Don't Ask, Don't Tell, and a recent study from the Pentagon concluded that there would be minimal risk to the troops if the ban was lifted.

Initially implemented in 1993, thousands of troops were discharged under this policy, putting our national security at risk. Congresswoman McCollum has been a long-time advocate of the repeal.

"I will vote to end a policy of open discrimination against a group of courageous Americans-men and women who proudly serve in the Armed Forces and put their lives on the line to defend our country," said Congresswoman McCollum. "For thousands of gay and lesbian veterans who have been discharged from the military over the years, Congress has acted too late. Nonetheless, it is time to honor their service by providing a new generation of patriotic gay and lesbian Americans the opportunity to serve our country proudly and openly."

President Obama is expected to sign this legislation into law this week.

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