Yesterday on Capitol Hill, Representative Jim Moran (D-VA) hosted a press conference with fellow Reps. Jared Polis (D-CO), Lois Capps (D-CA) and Jerry Nadler (D-NY) along with former members of the military who have been hit hardest by the Don't Ask, Don't Tell (DADT) policy barring openly gay men and women in uniform from serving their country.

The event served as an opportunity for these brave men and women to share their personal stories while also confronting a variety of media myths and falsehoods (detailed here) surrounding debate over the repeal of the 16 year-old policy.

Said, Rep. Moran:

"...there are opponents who will do all that they can to prevent repeal [of DADT]. Media Matters just recently released a report outlining all of the false and misleading accusations that opponents of reform have been trotting out in recent weeks...they're getting scared."

Arm yourself with the truth. Get to know the media myths and falsehoods surrounding coverage of DADT so you can fight back:

MYTH: Don't Ask, Don't Tell is working

MYTH: Repeal would undermine morale and unit cohesion

MYTH: Military experts oppose the repeal of DADT

MYTH: The public does not support repeal of DADT

MYTH: Right-wing attacks on DADT repeal are not anti-gay

MYTH: DADT repeal would adversely affect retention

MYTH: Experience of other nations aren't relevant because “nobody counts on” their armies

MYTH: Only progressives support the repeal of DADT

MYTH: DADT repeal would expose servicemembers to greater HIV risk