Don't Ask, Don't Tell is Repealed; NSD Salutes All Who Helped Make Today Possible
"At midnight last night, the wrong-headed Don't Ask, Don't Tell policy came to an end," said Michael Mitchell, National Stonewall Democrats Executive Director. "Good riddance.
"The real work now begins, especially around issues of benefits and the inclusion of transgender soldiers.
"To all of the servicemembers who sacrificed for their country in silence, those who were discharged not because of the quality of their work, but because of their sexual orientation, and those who made the ultimate sacrifice - we salute your bravery, your integrity and your commitment to defend our great country. We are glad that future soldiers will not be subject to government-sponsored homophobia.
"I'm incredibly proud of the work that Stonewall Democrats did around the country to make repeal a possibility, and then to make it reality, through countless phone calls, emails, letters and personal visits to Congress and the White House demanding repeal. We'd also like to acknowledge the relentless work of our sister organizations in the LGBT, progressive, faith and military communities who strategized, organized and worked together for repeal. The work of 17 years and untold sacrifice by many made this day possible.
"We thank Congress members from both sides of the aisle who passed repeal, helping President Obama keep his promise for open service. And, of course, many thanks are owed to President Obama for his leadership and commitment to the men and women who simply want to serve their country openly and freely.
"Today, we can hold our heads a bit higher knowing that our men and women in uniform have taken a giant step toward equality in service for all."
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