STATEMENT FROM GOVERNOR DAVID A. PATERSON

ALBANY, NY (12/18/2010)(readMedia)-- "Not very long from now, Americans will look back on today's momentous vote to repeal 'Don't Ask Don't Tell' and wonder why something so basic and fundamentally American as the right to serve and protect our nation openly was ever in dispute.

"Much as early resistance to racial integration of our Armed Forces seems ludicrous in hindsight, it will be difficult for future generations to comprehend an official policy that forced gays and lesbians - under threat of expulsion - to hide their sexual orientation for the privilege of defending the freedom and safety of their fellow Americans.

"The good news today is that this unjust, doomed policy has finally been consigned to relic status by a 65-31 majority. The members who voted for repeal can be justly proud that they upheld the principles of democracy, freedom, and equality that Americans value most.

"I also congratulate President Obama. Let the history books show that the repeal of 'Don't Ask Don't Tell' was achieved under his watch and would not have happened without his leadership.

"Together, Congress and President Obama have taken the nation a bold step forward. At a time when gays and lesbians are fighting and dying in Iraq and Afghanistan, their sacrifice deserves - at the bare minimum - that we honor their full humanity abroad and here at home."

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