Van Hollen Statement on Don't Ask, Don't Tell

Statement

Today Congressman Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Assistant to the Speaker, issued the following statement on passage of Congressman Patrick Murphy's amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act that puts in place a process to end the policy of Don't Ask, Don't Tell:

"Tonight, I was proud to stand with my colleagues in support of Congressman Patrick Murphy's amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act that puts in place a process to end the unjust policy of Don't Ask, Don't Tell. After more than a decade of discrimination, this is an important and long overdue victory for equality in our country.

"Under Don't ask, Don't Tell, more than 13,000 men and women in uniform have been discharged from the military and thousands more chose not to re-enlist. These brave Americans were willing to fight and die for their country, and we turned them away simply on the basis of their sexual orientation. We cannot afford to turn away dedicated, talented, and committed soldiers just because they are gay. Repealing Don't Ask, Don't Tell in this responsible way put the focus back where it belongs: on our military mission, not an individual's personal life.

"The bicameral proposal puts power back in the hands of our military leaders to determine what policies they need to build and maintain the strongest and most effective military. It gives the Department of Defense as much time as needed to implement regulations and make relevant certifications before repeal takes place. The President, the Secretary of Defense, and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff all support this proposal, as do the majority of the American people. Repealing this outdated and discriminatory policy is the right thing do for our country and our military, and I applaud President Obama for making good on this promise."

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