May 28, 2010
Historic Step Forward to Repeal “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”
WASHINGTON, DC – House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today released the following statement following the passage of HR 5136, the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2011. This bill provides our military with the funds and resources needed to strengthen national security, combat terrorism, and ensure that our troops are given the benefits and resources they need and deserve. It also takes an important step toward repealing the controversial “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy.
The measure would give the military the time it needs to finish its ongoing study of how best to implement repeal before that change goes into effect ensuring that the transition to a new personnel policy takes place without disruption to our fighting force.
“Today the House of Representatives passed the National Defense Authorization Act, providing our service members with the resources needed to focus on the threats of today while preparing for the obstacles of tomorrow. By enhancing our counterterrorism efforts, missile defense, and nuclear nonproliferation programs, this bill will strengthen our national security and prepare our military for the threats and challenges of the 21stcentury. It also enhances support for service members and their families, providing a Military pay raise and increasing the family separation allowance for our troops whose deployment requires them to live away from their families.
“I know what it is to walk into a room and be treated differently because of who or what you are. This legislation includes an historic and important step toward repealing the flawed “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy, allowing qualified, patriotic, and courageous Americans to serve our country regardless of their sexual orientation. This action, supported by Secretary of Defense Robert Gates and Admiral Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, will put the decision-making power in the hands of military leaders, allowing them to make personnel decisions based on military needs rather than an individual’s personal life. This action brings us a step closer to allowing men and women to openly serve in the military regardless of their sexual orientation, granting them the same rights which they risk their lives to defend.
“The passage of the National Defense and Authorization Act reinforces Democrats’ strong record on defense, taking another step to ensure that our military is fully prepared to face threats and challenges around the globe, while ensuring that our troops are afforded the rights and benefits they deserve.”