Hoyer Statement on the Fifth Anniversary of the End of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell"

Statement

House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today on the fifth anniversary of the end of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy:

"Today, we mark five years since the official end of the discriminatory "Don't Ask, Don't Tell' policy that barred gay and lesbian Americans from serving openly in our military. As a result of that repeal, our military is stronger, better able to recruit talented young Americans to its ranks, and more reflective of our values as a nation. The first step in repealing that policy was House approval of the Don't Ask, Don't Tell Repeal Act in 2010, and I was proud to bring that legislation to the Floor as Majority Leader and work to secure the support it needed to pass.

"As we face the national security challenges and threats of the twenty-first century, it is critical that every dedicated, talented individual who wishes to step up and serve the nation they love be allowed the opportunity to do so, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. I am pleased that the Pentagon took the further step of ending the ban on transgender Americans serving openly this summer. I will continue working with our military leaders, veterans, and LGBTQ rights groups to ensure that all who wish to serve in uniform and are able may do so without discrimination."

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