Representative Engel Calls For The Repeal Of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell'

Press Release

Congressman Eliot Engel called for repeal of the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" military policy in joining 75 of his House colleagues in asking President Barack Obama to direct the Defense Department to immediately suspend the policy and work for its repeal.

"I have the highest regard for the United States armed forces, but I believe all Americans should be allowed to serve in the military regardless of their sexual orientation. It is disgraceful that in the modern era, gay and lesbian citizens are unable to be open about who they are while serving in our military. While "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" may have opened some doors when it was first established in 1993, today it is an anachronism reminding us of the discrimination which members of the LGBT community continue to face everyday in our country," said Rep. Engel.

"In 2009 alone, more than 250 gay and lesbian service members have already been discharged because their sexual orientation was revealed. The time is long overdue to let people serve our country regardless of sexual orientation. Bravery and dedication are not solely possessed by heterosexuals," added Rep. Engel.

In a letter drafted by Rep. Alcee Hastings (D-FL), during the last five years almost 800 mission-critical troops, including at least 59 Arabic and nine Farsi linguists, have been discharged from the service. The financial cost of administering "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" from 1994-2003 was $363.8 million. The letter asks the President to cease any investigations into sexual orientation of service personnel and take the necessary steps to repeal, and replace "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" with a policy of "inclusion and non-discrimination."

"I know President Obama has called for this policy change, and I am convinced he will honor that call. There have been many important items on his agenda during his first few months in office. However, this change is something that must be done without delay to preserve the rights of our service members, to strengthen our fighting force and to reduce costs during this time of economic hardship. I will continue to work towards this goal and look forward to the day when gay and lesbian service members can serve their country without facing discrimination," added Rep. Engel.

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