The criteria for serving one's country should be competence, courage and willingness to serve. When we deny people the chance to serve because of their sexual orientation, we deprive them of their rights of citizenship, and we deprive our armed forces the service of willing and capable Americans.

Dianne Feinstein’s quote, "The criteria for serving one's country should be competence, courage, and willingness to serve. When we deny people the chance to serve because of their sexual orientation, we deprive them of their rights of citizenship, and we deprive our armed forces the service of willing and capable Americans," highlights the importance of inclusion and equality in military service. Feinstein argues that the qualifications for serving in the military should focus on a person’s competence and courage, not their sexual orientation. She suggests that denying individuals the opportunity to serve based on their sexual identity undermines their citizenship rights and limits the military’s access to capable, willing personnel.

Feinstein’s point is that citizenship is about the right to contribute to the country in a meaningful way, and restricting this right based on who someone loves is unjust. She believes that all Americans, regardless of sexual orientation, should be able to serve their country, especially when they possess the necessary skills and willingness. This view aligns with the broader fight for civil rights and equal treatment for the LGBTQ+ community, particularly in the context of military service.

The quote also critiques policies that have historically discriminated against LGBTQ+ individuals in the military, such as the "Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell" policy, which prevented openly gay individuals from serving. Feinstein argues that such policies not only violate rights but also hurt the armed forces by limiting the pool of talent and capability. By rejecting capable and willing individuals based on personal characteristics unrelated to their ability to serve, the military is effectively weakened.

This quote originates from Feinstein’s stance on equal rights and her advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community. As a long-time U.S. Senator from California, Feinstein has been a vocal proponent of civil liberties and equal treatment under the law. Her statement underscores her belief that a person’s ability to contribute to society should not be determined by their sexual orientation, but by their character and abilities.