Task Force denounces Senate vote blocking action on ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ repeal

The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force strongly denounced the U.S. Senate’s failure today to allow a vote on the National Defense Authorization Act, blocking action on “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” repeal. Join us at the Senate tomorrow, Friday, December 10th, at noon, for the “Mission: Incomplete” Rally. All those who support the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” should come to tell the Senate to remain in session until repeal is done.

Keep the pressure on by calling your senators and urging the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” during this session! Call 202.224.3121 now!

Statement by Rea Carey, Executive Director, National Gay and Lesbian Task Force:

The Senate’s failure to allow a vote on ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ repeal is a huge disgrace and disservice to our country. Senators had an opportunity — and an obligation — to move toward ending an outdated, unnecessary and costly policy that discriminates against courageous and qualified people willing to risk their lives by serving in the military. How many more personal and painful stories of discrimination must these lawmakers hear before they act to end this harmful policy? How many more exhaustive Pentagon studies need to be done that affirm it’s time to end the ban? Three-quarters of Americans say ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ should be repealed, as do top military leaders. People from every background, every faith, every community across the country know that qualified, patriotic Americans willing to risk their lives by serving in the military should be able to do so, free of discrimination.

Despite today’s obstructionism by a few politicians, ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ will end. We will continue to work to ensure all qualified Americans who wish to serve their country openly and freely are able to do so. We must, because the lives and livelihoods of thousands of dedicated service members hang in the balance.