U.S. Church Congregations Call for Repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell"

Large numbers of churches across the nation are calling for a repeal of the U.S. military's "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy, based on a concern for human rights. First, the Unitaraian Universalist Association called for a repeal in July. Now, the now the Metropolitan Community of Churches has added to that call.

"The very forces mobilized not only to defend our country but to establish freedom and justice for all should no longer be allowed to provide refuge for bias, bigotry and injustice," Rev. Elder Nancy L. Wilson, moderator of the MCC said in the statement issued September 4.

The MCC is an inclusive faith with more 43,000 members and 300 congregations around the world. The Unitarian Universalist Association has over 1,000 congregations in their fold. Both are active in social causes. The MCC is calling upon leaders at all levels of government to speak out in support of repealing 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' and to initiate policies of against discrimination based sexual orientation.

"We cannot hope to be instruments of peace on earth if we fail to live peacefully among ourselves, within our own nation's borders and within the ranks of our own military personnel. . . . 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' should be repealed now; freedom of service should become a reality in the U.S. military now," Wilson concluded.

In the Unitarian "Action of Immediate Witness", the association backs up their reasons for repealing DADT with figures pulled from various reports. Among the figures cited:

"WHEREAS taxpayers have spent over .360 million dollars training replacements for personnel discharged under DADT;

WHEREAS a 1993 Rand Report concluded the U,S. military could lift the gay ban without detriment to readiness and numerous subsequent studies conclude there is no empirical evidence to support DADT"

The UUA statement also makes reference to a UU principle that calls members to "affirm the inherent worth and dignity of every person and to promote justice, equity, and compassion in human relations."

The Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN) praises the move by the MCC. The SLDM is a national, non-profit organization devoted to provided legal services and advocating for policies to end harassment and discrimination against GLBT military personell.

"The MCC has a long history of working for justice and equal opportunity for all people, and they are a welcome voice in the growing coalition working to lift the ban. Their membership, which includes military chaplains and a strong contingency of activists around the world, will be immeasurably important in toppling 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell.'"

Former Navy Chaplain and MCC clergyperson, Rev. Dr. Sandra L. Bochonok, said in the statement, "I long for the day when the United States of America will allow citizens to serve openly. I pray for the day when 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' is lifted forever."

SOURCE:

Servicemembers Legal Defense Network, Metropolitan Community Churches Call for Repeal of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell', PR Newswire
Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations, Repeal "Don't Ask, Don't Tell": 2007 Action of Immediate Witness