My Fellow Young Democrats,
Today marks a bright moment in American History as we remove a discriminatory law from the US Statutes. Many of you have fought for this change for many years and because of your tireless efforts, the dream has become a reality. Don’t Ask Don’t Tell is officially repealed as of 12:01AM this morning (Tuesday Sept 20, 2011).
This legislative change doesn’t come without its somber moments. Many soldiers have had to hide who they are or face dishonorable discharge from our military because of whom they love. That all ends TODAY!
No longer will men and women who want to protect our nation have to feel ashamed of who they are. Gay & Lesbian service members will be able to serve openly and with the dignity and respect they deserve. To all those men and women whom have served in silence, I thank you for your sacrifice. To the over 13,000 men and women who served and were discharged from the military because of their sexual orientation, I thank you and sincerely apologize for any negative impacts that you’ve had because of the discharge.
Today and into this evening, Don’t Ask Don’t Tell Repeal Parties are going to be held across the nation. Young Democrats of America has partnered with Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN) to host these parties. If you’d like to get more information on where you can attend one in your local area, please visit the website for SLDN http://www.sldn.org/RepealDay.
Thank you again for your tireless efforts in getting Don’t Ask Don’t Tell repealed. Our job for equality is not done, but we are one step closer!
Sincerely,
Kristian Cosme
Chair
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender & Questioning Caucus
Young Democrats of America
http://www.yda.org/lgbtq
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