Take a cue from Illinois, Congress

The Illinois legislature has taken the historic step of providing civil unions here in our state, a plan supported by about six in 10 residents in recent surveys. I congratulate them for this action.

However, it gives me pause to reflect. Currently, Congress is debating whether to take up a related issue the end of the Don't Ask, Don't Tell policy, which has kept thousands of trained, talented Americans from serving our country in the armed forces.

Seven of 10 Americans consistently support this policy's repeal, and in my opinion, doing so is a matter of justice. It is the right thing to do. If someone is brave enough to want to go fight for us, they should be able to do it, regardless of color, creed, gender, or sexual orientation.

We in Illinois hope that our leaders in Washington will follow the example set by the Illinois legislature in showing tolerance for all, and protecting the rights of our citizens.

Leah Goodman

Warrenville