DeGette Statement on End of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell"

DENVER – U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette (CO-1) issued the following statement today following the Department of Defense's final implementation of the repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell." As Vice-Chair of the Congressional LGBT Caucus, Rep. DeGette played a critical role in the passage of repeal legislation.

"This morning at 12:01 am, the military's discriminatory "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy officially became a thing of the past. For too long we have forced brave men and women to hide who they are in order to serve their country. But today I am proud to have helped lift the veil of discrimination that has long shrouded our armed forces. Not only is our military stronger as a result of today's actions, but so too is our country, for we have reaffirmed our basic commitment to equal protection under the law.

"While today represents a monumental achievement in the pursuit of full equality for LGBT Americans, we cannot forget the work that is still left to be done. Today's accomplishment proves that progress is unavoidable, and I look forward to working with my colleagues from both sides of the aisle to repeal further discriminatory legislation such as the Defense of Marriage Act and ensure that all Americans are treated equally regardless of who they love."