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Today in History: U.S. Military Ends "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" Policy

9/20/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On September 20, 2011, the United States military officially ended the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy, which had prohibited openly gay, lesbian, or bisexual individuals from serving. Instituted in 1994, the policy allowed closeted LGBTQ service members to serve but barred those who were open about their sexual orientation. This change marked a significant step toward inclusivity in the armed forces.

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Story summary

On September 20, 2011, the United States military officially ended the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy, which had prohibited openly gay, lesbian, or bisexual individuals from serving. Instituted in 1994, the policy allowed closeted LGBTQ service members to serve but barred those who were open about their sexual orientation. This change marked a significant step toward inclusivity in the armed forces.