Today, Congressman Scott Peters (CA-52) spoke at the Outserve-Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN) Annual Leadership Conference in Downtown San Diego. At the event, Peters thanked Outserve-SLDN for its history of advocacy on behalf of LGBT servicemembers and their families. Congressman Peters also fielded questions from members of the audience.

“Our military should be about who can best help us complete the mission – clearly that has nothing to do with sexual orientation or gender identity,” Rep. Peters said. “At a time when we’re relying on an all-volunteer force, asking for longer deployments, and in serious need of individuals with specialized skills, we should not be turning away qualified individuals; that’s why I support fully open service in the military.

“As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, my staff and I are constantly looking for places to include all couples in federal benefits, particularly in Department of Defense programs. It is my sincere hope that through your advocacy, engagement, and sharing of your personal experiences, we can move our country toward full equality.”

Rep. Peters is an active member of the LGBT Equality Caucus in the U.S. House of Representatives, has received a 100% score from the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) in recent years, previously served on the Board of the San Diego LGBT Equality Center, and has been a public supporter of full marriage equality since running for San Diego City Council in 2000.