Today, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 2965, the Don’t Ask Don’t Tell Repeal (DADT) with a vote of 250 to 175.  This policy allows the U.S military service members to reveal their sexual orientation while serving in the armed forces. 

“I am proud to support the repeal of the Don’t Ask Don’t Tell policy.  Our troops make extraordinary sacrifices everyday, and they have the right to serve with the utmost integrity.  No service member should be turned away or discharged because of their sexual orientation.  This form of discrimination only hinders the capability of our military. We should not let an individual’s sexual orientation hinder the effectiveness of our U.S Armed Forces,” stated Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke. 

The latest Washington Post-ABC News poll indicates that 77 percent of American citizens say that service members who publicly disclose their sexual orientation should be able to serve in the military.  In November 2010, a survey conducted by the Department of Defense illustrated that 62 percent of surveyed military members and spouses agreed that repealing DADT would not affect their own military service and/or unit cohesion.

 

“Secretary of Defense Robert Gates and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mike Mullen both support the repeal of DADT.  I am confident that through their leadership, they will be able to efficiently implement new policies that will end this discriminatory policy.  It is important that we never forget the voices of our troops, and continue to support them as they sacrifice to protect us.  As a Member of the House Homeland Security Committee, I know that the repeal of this legislation will help to not only bolster our military forces, but strengthen our security capabilities,” concluded Rep. Clarke.