ACLU statement on Don't Ask, Don't Tell legislation

Dear ACLU Supporter,

We're on the verge of an historic vote to end a great injustice and need your help to achieve a victory. Please contact your senators right now.

We haven't said this about many Congressional issues lately, but victory is within reach. I'm talking about the repeal of the discriminatory "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" (DADT) policy.

But, we need you to help make this victory happen.

The House voted yesterday to pass a standalone DADT repeal bill. Now, the bill goes to the Senate and could be voted on as early as this weekend.

Please contact your senators right now. Tell them you want "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" repealed.

A federal court has ruled DADT unconstitutional. President Obama, Defense Secretary Gates, and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff all support ending DADT. Now that the House has voted to end this discriminatory policy, we must keep the pressure on the Senate. Lesbian, gay and bisexual service members are devoting themselves to our country with courage and distinction. They should never be asked to deny who they are or hide who they love for fear of seeing their military careers terminated.

We're on the verge of an historic vote to end a great injustice and need your help to achieve a victory. Please contact your senators right now.

Thanks for all your support,

Anthony D. Romero Executive Director ACLU