Today, the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals in California lifted its stay of an injunction against the U.S. policy against gays and lesbians openly serving in the military. In September 2010, a District Judge found "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" unconstitutional. In December, President Obama signed legislation repealing Don't Ask, Don't Tell.
In light of the repeal by Congress, there is no reason to keep a stay in place, commented Erwin Chemerinsky, a constitutional scholar. A Log Cabin Republican spokesman stated that as a practical matter, lifting the stay has great import since the law is still being enforced. Last month four individuals were discharged.
Before this ruling, gay and lesbian service members were at risk, and now "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" is suspended worldwide.
