(Washington, DC) — Today, Secretary of Defense Robert Gates told the Associated Press that he is prepared to move forward on “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” (DADT) repeal certification this month. In response, Army Veteran and SLDN Executive Director Aubrey Sarvis released the following statement:
“SLDN is pleased to see Secretary Gates clearly state that he is prepared to certify ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ repeal before he leaves his post at the end of the month. After nearly six months of preparation and training, we join the Secretary in expressing confidence that the military is, indeed, ready for open service. Hopefully, with the bulk of the training completed in all of the services, the service chiefs are rapidly approaching the point where they can officially recommend to the JCS Chairman Michael Mullen, Secretary Gates, and to the President that the time has come to make the long anticipated certification. The time to certify ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ repeal is on Secretary Gates’ watch.”
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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. Click here to read our warning to service members.
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.