The Department of Justice filed a motion last week in a case challenging Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell (DADT). People For the American Way President Michael B. Keegan issued the following statement:

“This latest motion reiterates the President’s stated support of a repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell, and I’m grateful that he’s been clear in his desire for the policy to end. Obviously, Congress is fully capable of ending this dangerous policy, and Congressional leaders should move forward with legislation to accomplish that. But no matter how the law is changed, it will require leadership from the President, and he still isn’t providing it.

“Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell doesn’t just do a grave disservice to gays and lesbians who have put their lives on the line for their country; it puts all of us at risk. Especially at a time when our military resources are stretched thin, it makes no sense at all for the military to discharge qualified, competent service members simply for being gay.

“The White House should put forth a clear timeline for repealing DADT and push aggressively for Congress to pass appropriate legislation.Even before the law is changed, the President can and should prevent further discharges from taking place. President Obama has already proven that his heart is in the right place.Now he needs to show that he has the resolve to go with it.”

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