The American military’s 18-year-old discriminatory “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” Policy, which prohibited openly gay men and women from enlisting, officially ended at midnight last night, after years of tireless work from activists.
The lifting of the ban also ends all pending investigations, discharges and other administrative proceedings that were begun under the Clinton-era law. Service members who were discharged under the DADT law will also be allowed to re-enlist.
House of Representatives Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, said “Our nation will finally close the door on a fundamental unfairness for gays and lesbians, and indeed affirm equality for all American.”
The Pentagon has reported that 97% of the military has undergone training in the new law.
Be sure to check out our ASK, TELL t-shirt!