(Washington, D.C.) Army Veteran and Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN) Executive Director Aubrey Sarvis today issued the following statement on the swearing-in of new U.S. Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta:
“At SLDN, we welcome Secretary Panetta to his new post. We know, from his time in Congress, the White House, the CIA, and in the private sector, of his commitment to equality. We appreciate his statements indicating support for ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ repeal and his strong commitment to continuing the repeal process put in place by Secretary Gates and Admiral Mullen. We urge him to do so with all deliberate speed and certify as quickly as possible. We look forward to a constructiveworking relationship with the new secretary as we march together toward open service.”
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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.