NBJC Urges Military Leadership Towards "Don't Ask, Don’t Tell" Repeal
03 Feb 10 12:00 AM CST
Contact: Stacey Gates
NBJC Press Secretary
240.274.5400
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 2/3/2010
The National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC) applauded yesterday's recommendation by the nation’s top two Defense officials that steps be taken towards ending the "Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell" (DADT) policy, which would allow LGBT individuals to serve openly in the United States military. Admiral Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff supports the repeal of DADT, as does Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates. Supporters of DADT include Senator John McCain of Arizona, who is on record as being "deeply disappointed" with possibly ending the policy.
"Tens of thousands of African Americans have had their lives turned upside down by this misguided policy," noted NBJC Executive Director Sharon J. Lettman. "We implore the military leadership reviewing how to dismantle ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ not to be distracted by those who would prevent gays and lesbians from serving their country honorably and openly."
Pentagon data shows that African American women in particular are disproportionately affected by DADT, and have been discharged under this policy at three times the rate they serve in the military.
The National Black Justice Coalition (www.NBJC.org) is a civil rights organization dedicated to empowering Black lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people. Its mission is to eradicate racism and homophobia. NBJC envisions a world where all people are fully empowered to participate safely, openly and honestly in family, faith and community, regardless of race, gender-identity, or sexual orientation.
