Senator Joseph Lieberman has introduced the U.S. Senate's first bill to repeal "Don't Ask, Don't Tell," the law that bans gays and lesbians from serving in the U.S. military, and fires troops who are outed as gay or lesbian. Military leaders have roundly criticized "Don't Ask, Don't Tell," urging Congress to repeal the law and allow openly gay and lesbian troops the right to serve their country.

Admiral Mike Mullen, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff -- the highest ranking military position in the country below the President -- has said that in his personal belief, he feels that "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" compromises the military's integrity. Other military leaders, including retired Gen. Colin Powell, have said that the times have changed and "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" has got to go. And polls show overwhelming public support for eliminating "Don't Ask, Don't Tell."

It's time the U.S. Senate follow the lead set by Adm. Mullen, Gen. Powell, and the American public. By passing the Military Readiness Enhancement Act of 2010, the U.S. Senate will send the message that gays and lesbians are valuable members of the military. They will also send the message that our military should be based on the principle of integrity, and that forcing members to lie about their sexual orientation compromises that integrity.

Urge your U.S. Senators to pass the Military Readiness Enhancement Act of 2010. Let this bill be not only the first, but also the last bill introduced in the U.S. Senate calling for a repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell."