Last year, President Obama officially annulled the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell," law, which prohibited gays and lesbians from openly serving in the military. Although this was a great historic step, conservatives in Congress immediately began to lobby for the law's reinstatement, claiming that the military would have to prove that gay and lesbian soldiers were not a "distraction."
Though Obama promised to move "swiftly and efficiently," the military has continued to enforce the policy during the ramp up period, dishonorably discharging any soldiers who came out as lesbian or gay.
Yesterday, the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals officially ordered an end to "Don't Ask, Don't Tell," effectively stopping any further dishonorable discharges. They also ordered higher scrutiny of other discriminatory laws, including the Defense of Marriage Act.
It is high time for the government to recognize the unconstitutionality of anti-LGBT laws. Thank the 9th Circuit Court for leading the way!
I am writing to express my gratitude for your recent court decision to officially end "Don't Ask, Don't Tell."
Gay and lesbian soldiers have a right to serve their country just like everyone else, and the continued discrimination against them is both unconscionable and impractical. Voluntary enlistment rates have plummeted in the last years; there is no good reason to exclude willing soldiers from serving. Thank you for officially acknowledging that.
[Your comments here]
It is high time for the federal body to recognize the unconstitutionality of anti-LGBT discrimination laws. Thank you for helping to lead the way!
Keep up the great work. Look what you've accomplished!
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