President Obama made the following statement after the House voted yesterday to pass a repeal of the military’s “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell” policy:
“I applaud the House for passing, with bipartisan support, the Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell Repeal Act of 2010…I have consistently called for the repeal of this law. Moving forward with the repeal is not only the right thing to do, it will also give our military the clarity and certainty it deserves. We must ensure that Americans who are willing to risk their lives for their country are treated fairly and equally by their country.”
Here is a statement from Rep. Jim Himes (D-Conn.):
“I was proud to support legislation that will end the intolerable discrimination of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell. We have no business—morally or militarily—turning away ready and able men and women because of their sexual orientation who are willing to defend our country. I am thankful for these brave soldiers and their willingness to serve, and I urge the Senate to act swiftly to send this measure to the President.”
Finally, here is yet another statement from Rep. Xavier Becerra (D-Calif.)
“Repealing Don’t Ask, Don’t’ Tell will further strengthen the resolve of our men and women in uniform who are fighting and dying to protect our country,” Rep Becerra said. “We’ve heard from our military leaders, from our courts, and from the American people that now is the time to put an end to this unfair policy once and for all. And it’s time for the forces that stand in the way of repealing Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell to start listening.”