signed legislation repealing “don’t ask, don’t tell,” the policy that had forced them to remain in the closet or risk discharge.
Nancy Pelosi, speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, has issued a statement on the significance of the repeal and the need to extend the freedom to serve to transgender Americans as well, and to pass the Equality Act, assuring equal rights for LGBTQ+ people in all aspects of life.“Ten years ago, our nation took bold action to end a fundamental injustice that had inflicted shame and distress on tens of thousands of brave, patriotic LGBTQ servicemembers,” Pelosi’s statement reads. “With the repeal of the hateful ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ policy, we strengthened our national security and reaffirmed the bedrock.