Sam Farr: “Since I became a Member of Congress, I have always been unwavering in my commitment to repeal the discriminatory Don't…”

“Since I became a Member of Congress, I have always been unwavering in my commitment to repeal the discriminatory Don't Ask, Don't Tell policy. At a time when our military is already stretched to the breaking point and standards are being lowered to increase recruitment numbers, it is outrageous that thousands of highly skilled soldiers, like Arab linguists, have been forced out of uniform because of their sexual orientation. These gay men and women only want to serve their country with honor. Changing a social institution is not easy, but President Truman persevered and ended racial discrimination in the military in 1948. Women were accepted into the military in the 1970s, and they now make up 20% of our Armed Forces. Congress rescinded the female combat exemption laws in 1996 and our military personnel, both men and women, are universally acknowledged as the best in the world. Mr. Speaker, our Armed Forces are resilient and adaptive and will embrace Open Service as they have successfully embraced other social changes it in the past. Repealing this policy is long overdue and will finally allow gays and lesbians to serve their country honorably without fear of being discriminated against by the very Nation they fight to protect.”