On the recordDecember 18, 2010
I rise today in support of the DREAM Act and in support of the repeal of don't ask, don't tell. I will focus my remarks on the DREAM Act, but I want to make it clear to my colleagues, you will not get many chances in the Senate in the course of your career to face clear votes on the issue of justice. This morning, you will have two--not one but two. The question is whether the Senate will go on record as a Nation prepared to stop discrimination based on sexual orientation. It is a monumental question, a question of great moment, and a question we should face squarely. There will be a vote, as well, on whether the Senate will stand by thousands of children in America who live in the shadows and dream of greatness. They are children who have been raised in this country. They stand in the classrooms and pledge allegiance to our flag. They sing our Star Spangled Banner, our national anthem. They believe in their heart of hearts this is home. This is the only country they have ever known. All they are asking for is a chance to serve this Nation. That is what the DREAM Act is all about.
