Rally in Raleigh protests 'don't ask don't tell'

Activists in Raleigh held a Veterans Day celebration they hope will help lead to changes in the military's policy on gays and lesbians.

The rally to honor gay and lesbian veterans was held Thursday outside the office of U.S. Sen. Kay Hagan.

“Our motto this afternoon is ‘Let us serve,’” activist Jose Rico said.

“North Carolina is a military-friendly community. I believe anyone willing and able to serve in our military should be able to do so,” Hagan said in a statement released Thursday.

The event is one of dozens around the country organized by the gay rights group Get Equal. The organization wants an end to the so-called "don't ask, don't tell" policy that prohibits openly gay people from serving in the military.

They think the best chance for a repeal starts Monday, when Congress goes back into session. They're hoping the Democratic majority overturns the policy before a new Congress is sworn in next year.