The following post comes from HRC Regional Field Director Sultan Shakir:
Yesterday, I met with Maine veterans about the critical importance of letting Senators Snowe and Collins know about the need to pass the National Defense Authorization Act and to repeal “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” I have a deep respect for the men and women have who have served our country and was appreciative of the overwhelming support for repeal expressed by these vets.
Many expressed that they have firsthand knowledge of what military service is all about and how sexual orientation was never a factor in someone’s ability to do to their job. One gentleman remembers serving alongside gay troops before and during DADT. He expressed that he always felt that those troops were just as qualified and just as dedicated, if not more because of their willingness to serve, even under DADT.
Across the state, HRC will be meeting with vets to provide them with opportunities to reach out to Senators Snowe and Collins. Both senators are key votes in the US Senate and can help to end discrimination against lesbian and gay servicemembers by voting to repeal “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” this year.
If you or someone you know is a vet or a family member of someone currently serving, please email me at Sultan.Shakir@hrc.org
