[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 133 (Tuesday, September 6, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1172]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  IN RECOGNITION OF STAND OUT'S DEDICATION TOWARDS MILITARY DIVERSITY

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                          HON. DORIS O. MATSUI

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, September 6, 2016

  Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Volunteers of 
America (VOA) Veterans Services, California Department of Veterans 
Affairs (CalVet), Los Rios College District, Mather VA Hospital, 
Women's Veterans Alliance, and Spiritual Warriors as they come together 
at the Stand Out celebration, recognizing the diversity of those who 
have served in the military. Additionally, this year marks the five 
year anniversary of the Don't Ask Don't Tell Repeal Act. I ask all my 
colleagues to join me in honoring these fine organizations 
participating in this celebration.
  The Stand Out event reaches out to Northern California's military 
members and veterans who are underserved in a variety of areas 
including healthcare, housing, and employment. This year's event honors 
all women and LGBT veterans in the hopes that they will obtain the 
resources, education, and access to services that have been challenging 
to pursue, but nonetheless rightfully deserved. California has the 
largest population of homeless women and LGBT veterans in the nation. 
Since the transition from military to the civilian sector is 
challenging and often met with barriers, especially for women and the 
LGBT community, organizations participating in the Stand Out event are 
working together to ensure that these communities have the information 
and support to receive their rightful benefits.
  In participating in the Stand Out celebration, it is important to 
recognize that all of this progress has not come easily, especially 
with the fear and hatred that exists for these populations. We thank 
those who are dedicated to helping these underserved communities of 
women and LGBT veterans despite the many challenges they have faced 
along the way.
  Mr. Speaker, as the members of the Stand Out event celebrate military 
diversity and the five year anniversary of the Don't Ask Don't Tell 
Repeal Act, I ask all my colleagues to join me in honoring them for 
their commitment to women and LGBT veterans

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