(Washington, D.C.) Army veteran and Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN) Executive Director Aubrey Sarvis today issued the following statement in response to an announcement from the White House that it rejects efforts to disrupt “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” (DADT) repeal as well as expand the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) through the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA):
“We are heartened to see the White House standing firm against attempts to use the defense spending bill as a vehicle for delaying or derailing repeal and expanding DOMA. The most troubling is the Akin language which infringes upon the religious liberties of chaplains, service members, and Department of Defense civilian employees. This would set a dangerous precedent. At SLDN, we are focused on the Senate, where we should be better positioned to fight back these attacks.”
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STILL AT RISK: Despite the President signing the bill authorizing repeal of DADT, it is still unsafe for service members to come out until 60 days after certification by President Obama, Secretary Gates, and Admiral Mullen. Warning to service members: www.SLDN.org/StillAtRisk
SLDN FREE HOTLINE: Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender service members with questions are urged to contact the SLDN hotline to speak with a staff attorney: 202-328-3244 x100.
ABOUT SLDN: Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN) was established in 1993 when “Don’t Ask” originally passed. In addition to working on repeal, SLDN offers free, confidential legal services to those impacted by the discriminatory law. Last year the organization received its 10,000th call for assistance to its legal hotline.