Gay supporters call for repeal of US military ban
Posted by Gay News Desk at 10:32 AM. Filed under: Gay News
WASHINGTON (AFP) — Opponents of a controversial US ban on homosexuals serving openly in the military called on Friday for an end to the restriction, which is one of the hot-button issues in the presidential race.
Twenty-eight retired generals and admirals sent a letter to Congress calling for an end to the “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy which allows gays, lesbians and bisexuals to serve as long as they keep their sexual orientation quiet.
“We respectfully urge Congress to repeal the ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ policy,” the retired officers wrote.
“As is the case in Britain, Israel, and other nations which allow gays and lesbians to serve openly, our service members are professionals who are able to work together effectively despite differences in race, gender, religion and sexuality.”
Rights groups also set up 12,000 American flags near the Capitol grounds to symbolize the 12,000 soldiers who have been forced out of the military in the 14 years since the policy was instituted.
Gay advocacy groups estimate that around 65,000 homosexuals are part of the US military today.
According to a CNN/Opinion Research Corporation poll taken in May, 79 percent of Americans think gays should be able to serve in the military without facing discrimination over their sexual orientation.