Senator John McCain is opposing repeal, at least at this time, as noted in his opening statement at the same Senate committee hearing.
Frustrated by the Senator's position — perhaps a lightning rod for my impatience at the terribly slow progress in affirming gay and lesbian rights — I posted the following comment on Senator McCain's web site:
Senator McCain,
I am very disappointed by your position on "Don't Ask, Don't Tell."
You ask whether this is the appropriate time, whether repealing the current policy is premature.
I ask what the men and women of our armed forces are defending if not the rights of all of our citizens to fulfill their potentials — including those who are gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender.
Only over the recent span of my adult life have I seen this nation begin to recognize and affirm the rights of gays. I am thankful that my teenage children hold none of the biases and pejorative assumptions that were prevalent when I was their age.
I have faith that those in our services who have concerns will respond to the "better angels of our nature" with appropriate leadership and education.
Senator, I ask you to help provide that leadership and support Defense Secretary Gates' recommendation to repeal "Don't Ask, Don't Tell."
