ISD Statement on "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" repeal vote

Yesterday, five Indiana Democrats stood on the right side of history and voted to repeal the discriminatory "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy. Since it's inception in 1993, "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" has forced the discharge of over 10,000 brave men and women from our armed services simply because of their sexual orientation. Current polls show that 79% of Americans favor allowing gays and lesbians to serve openly in our military.

On Thursday afternoon, the Senate Armed Services Committee voted overwhelmingly to amend the 2010 Defense Authorization bill to add "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" repeal language. Indiana Senator Evan Bayh, who sits on this committee, voted in favor of attaching the repeal language to the bill. Later the same evening, the full House of Representatives passed a similar amendment to their version of the Defense Authorization bill, with Indiana Representatives Brad Ellsworth, Pete Visclosky, Baron Hill, and Andre Carson voting in favor of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" repeal.

Indiana Stonewall Democrats would like to thank the five Indiana legislators - all Democrats - who voted in favor of repealing this reprehensible policy.

"We applaud Indiana's congressional representatives for voting to end discrimination and strengthen our military," said ISD Vice-President Lori Morris. "While it is unfortunate that one Indiana Democrat sided with the Republican minority, we are pleased to see this amendment pass with such broad support. Many gays and lesbians already risk their lives daily in combat situations and they deserve the full support of our country. We're proud our party led the way on this critical issue."