Shelley Berkley: “I rise today to speak in support of the repeal of the Don't Ask, Don't Tell policy. Don't Ask, Don't Tell is outdated…”

“I rise today to speak in support of the repeal of the Don't Ask, Don't Tell policy. Don't Ask, Don't Tell is outdated and it's unjust. No individual, especially those in our Armed Forces, should be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation. Our troops fight honorably to protect our freedom. The least we can do in return is to fight to protect their rights as well. This unjust and unnecessary practice is also unsound. It makes no sense for our military to discharge valuable servicemembers, especially during a time of war, when we need every American who is willing and able to serve. If a fellow citizen volunteers to don the uniform of our Nation, no matter what their sexual orientation, we shouldn't be discriminating against them. Don't Ask, Don't Tell does nothing to contribute to our national security. It only undermines the strength and integrity of our military. I believe this practice should be repealed immediately. Its time has come, not only for the benefit of our Armed Services, but for the security of our great Nation.”