repealing the “don’t ask, don’t tell” law. In a Statement
of Administration Policy, the White House appears to be on board
with Congress moving ahead this week on getting rid of the 17-year
discriminatory law that bars openly gay and lesbian service members
from serving their country.
The White House’s engagement on DADT is significant; it breathes
new life into the repeal effort for the 65,000 gays and lesbian
service members—and their families. But key details as to how
and when our troops will be able to serve openly are not yet
known. And votes still have to occur before any possible
celebration can begin.
The DADT law forces service members to unjustly choose between
their partners and children and keeping their job. LGBT parents
cannot marry or enter into a civil union or domestic partnership
without creating a public record of the service member’s
relationship. And any public record of a service member’s sexual
orientation is a violation of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” He
or she would likely be fired.
What can you do for the brave men and women serving our country?
Contact both of your U.S. Senators and Representative by calling
the U.S. Capitol Switchboard at (202)224-3121 and tell them to
repeal DADT and pass a law allowing open service – this week.