Congresswoman Matsui Recognizes End of Don t Ask, Don t Tell Policy

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, September 20, 2011

CONTACT: MARA LEE
(202) 225-7163

Congresswoman Matsui Recognizes End of Don t Ask, Don t Tell Policy

Today, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-05) reaffirmed her support for H.R. 2695, the Don t Ask Don t Tell Repeal Act of 2010. Starting today, the law formally repeals the harmful Don t Ask, Don t Tell policy, which called for the dishonorable discharge of service members who were either openly gay or perceived to be. In December 2010, Congresswoman Matsui voted to abolish this policy. H.R. 2695 was then signed into law by President Obama, and given final authorization by military leaders this summer.

Today is an important milestone for the American military, whose policies will finally allow gay men and women to serve openly in America's armed forces.

The formal repeal of the Don t Ask, Don t Tell policy is also important in the history of civil rights in this country, and reaffirms the ideals of our nation. The United States of America is a country that champions equality and civil rights, and much like the Sacramento community, derives its strength from its diversity.

I supported the repeal of Don t Ask, Don t Tell because it was a necessary and overdue step for equality in America. For too long our military had discharged highly skilled service members simply on the basis that they were open and honest about their sexual orientation. An American's desire to serve their country in the military should never be hindered by their gender, race, ethnicity or sexual orientation. Today, we are showing support for our armed forces and the LGBT community by finally eliminating the Don t Ask, Don t Tell policy, and further empowering the United States military to focus on their mission to protect the American people.

# # #