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Obama declares June LGBT month
As he did last year, Obama today declared June "Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Pride Month." But this year the announcement comes as Congress began moving to repeal the controversial "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy used by the US military when dealing LGBT service members.
President Obama hailed the Congressional moves, writing in a statement: "Our military is made up of the best and bravest men and women in our nation, and my greatest honor is leading them as Commander-in-Chief. This legislation will help make our Armed Forces even stronger and more inclusive by allowing gay and lesbian soldiers to serve honestly and with integrity."
The Senate Armed Services Committee passed an amendment that would do away with the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy and allow LGBT service members to serve openly, without fear of being discharged. The House of Representatives is expected to pass similar legislation.