Lady Gaga has urged U.S. officials to throw homophobic soldiers out of the military.

The iconic star took a stand against the controversial 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' policy at a protest rally yesterday (September 20) in Portland, Maine. The rally was organised by the Servicemembers Legal Defense Network.

She spoke out about her opposition to the unspoken rule, which bans homosexual service personnel from revealing their sexuality.

Gaga took to the stage to huge cheers as she said, "I'm here because 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' is wrong. It's unjust. Doesn't it seem that 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' is backwards? Doesn't it seem to be, based on the constitution of the United States, (that) we're penalising the wrong soldier? Doesn't it seem to you we should send home the prejudice - the straight soldier who hates the gay soldier. The straight soldier whose performance in the military is affected because he is homophobic...If you are not honourable enough to fight without prejudice, go home."

She continued, "I'm here today because I would like to propose a new law. A law which sends home the soldier which has the problem. Our new law is called, 'If you don't like it, go home. There are amazing heroes here today whose stories are more powerful than any story I could tell, any fight I ever fought or any song I could sell. I'm here because they inspire me. I'm here because I believe in them."

A key vote on the future of the policy is set for this afternoon.