Quigley Statement on President Obama’s Certification to End ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’

WASHINGTON -- Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05) released the following statement following President Obama's signing of a certification to end the ban on gays and lesbians serving openly in the military - known as 'Don't ask, Don't Tell' in 60 days.

"Today, I applaud President Obama for choosing equality and human dignity over the prejudice and discrimination of the past," said Quigley. "It is welcome news that in 60 days the 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' policy will finally be a relic of another time and our brave men and women in uniform will no longer be forced to live under a cloak of secrecy and fear."

Since his election to Congress, Quigley has made LGBT equality one of his top legislative priorities. He was an ardent supporter of repealing 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' and is a co-sponsor of the Respect for Marriage Act, which would ensure that all couples who assume the serious legal responsibilities of marriage are treated fairly under federal law.