America made history today. After 17 years of this failed and discriminatory law, gay and lesbian service members will soon be able to serve with the full honor and integrity the uniform demands. No longer will patriots be forced to lie in order to serve the country they love and are willing to die for.

This vote by the United States Senate will have extremely positive ripple effects well beyond 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell.' Our government has sent a powerful message that discrimination, on any level, should not be tolerated.