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A project of Common Dreams

For Immediate Release
Contact:

Inga Sarda-Sorensen, Director of Communications
(Office) 646.358.1463 isorensen@theTaskForce.org

Task Force: The Time Is Now to End 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell'

Senate Armed Services Committee holds hearing today on the military ban

WASHINGTON

The Senate Armed Services Committee is holding a hearing
today on "Don't Ask, Don't Tell." Legislation to repeal the military
ban on openly lesbian, gay and bisexual service members was introduced
March 3 in the U.S. Senate by Sen. Joe Lieberman (I-Conn.).

Statement by Rea Carey, Executive Director

National Gay and Lesbian Task Force

"Today, once again, people are stepping forth to testify about the
damage of the immoral and unnecessary 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' policy.
Unfortunately, we've heard many such stories of discrimination against
courageous and qualified people who are willing and proud to serve
their country. How many more of these stories must Congress hear before
it takes action to end this outrage?

"We thank Senator Levin for holding this hearing today, but the time
is now to end 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell.' Once again, we urge for the
immediate halt to all discharges of service members because of their
sexual orientation until Congress finally fulfills its responsibility
to overturn this archaic, unjust law."

The National LGBTQ Task Force advances full freedom, justice and equality for LGBTQ people. We are building a future where everyone can be free to be their entire selves in every aspect of their lives. Today, despite all the progress we've made to end discrimination, millions of LGBTQ people face barriers in every aspect of their lives: in housing, employment, healthcare, retirement, and basic human rights. These barriers must go. That's why the Task Force is training and mobilizing millions of activists across our nation to deliver a world where you can be you. Join us!