On the recordSeptember 21, 2011
Today, I would like to thank my colleagues in the LGBT Equality Caucus, Leader Pelosi, Congresswoman Baldwin, Congressman Frank, everyone today as we celebrate the end of a discriminatory era against gay and lesbian servicemembers in America with the official repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell. For too long, this failed policy unfairly denied fundamental human rights to highly qualified individuals who wish to serve our country. As a vice-chair of the congressional LGBT Equality Caucus, I am pleased that the tireless work of our congressional colleagues, the administration, and the LGBT community resulted in the end of Don't Ask, Don't Tell. Although this is a remarkable step forward, we still have a long way to go to attain full equality. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered people continue to be targets of discrimination in our policies, our laws, and our society. I have always said that discrimination is un-American, and we as a Nation must continue to fight for policies that bring us closer to fulfilling the principles we espouse. I encourage all of us to stay committed to ensuring that sexual orientation and gender identity are no longer a cause for inequality. ____________________
