Washington – Today the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) – the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization – praised the Pentagon’s decision to allow military chaplains to perform wedding ceremonies in states where they are legal, and performing such weddings is consistent with their faith traditions.  Just days after the implementation of the repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell, this is an important step to preserving the religious freedom of chaplains and removing unnecessary and discriminatory barriers for our men and women in uniform. 

“I applaud the Department of Defense for protecting the religious freedoms of all military chaplains,” said HRC President Joe Solmonese.  “As we move into a new era of open service, today’s decision by the Department of Defense ensures that all military families, including lesbian and gay military families, have equal access to military facilities.”

Last week marked the end of the discriminatory law known as “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” which barred gay, lesbian and bisexual service members from serving openly in the military. 

The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.