As it marks the tenth anniversary of the repeal of the now-defunct “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy that barred LGBTQ individuals from serving openly in the U.S. military, the Biden administration has announced that discharged veterans may soon be able to receive full benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. “The repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell, which formally barred gay, lesbian, and bisexual service members from openly serving, helped move our nation closer to its foundational promise of equality, dignity, and opportunity for all. “On this day and every day, I am thankful for all of the LGBTQ+ service members and veterans who strengthen our military and our nation,” Biden said. With transgender service members taking that step just this year, for the second time, we know we’re not done and the chain isn’t complete. “On the ten year anniversary of the repeal of ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,’ we honor LGBTQ service members who have long served with strength, dignity and pride.

Source: MetroXpress September 20, 2021 22:18 UTC