NBC News reports:
Three years after the Obama administration told transgender individuals they could serve openly and have access to gender-affirming medical and psychological care, the Trump administration has reversed course. The Pentagon on Friday began to implement a controversial new policy that critics say is essentially a “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy for trans service members.
“The policy is insidious in operation but designed to be as comprehensive a ban as possible,” a report from the nonpartisan Palm Center, which studies LGBTQ military issues, stated. “In that sense, it is a perfect parallel to the failed ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ policy, also sold as not being a ban although designed to systemically push gay people out of military service — or at least keep them silent and invisible.”
Standing with all of our brave #transgender servicemembers who have dedicated their lives to serving our country. You are not alone in this fight. We see you, we hear you, and we stand with you. #FightTheBan #ProtectTransTroops pic.twitter.com/Afnv0w1hRk
— Rep. Ted Lieu (@RepTedLieu) April 12, 2019
Trans people across the nation: We see you. The #TransMilitaryBan is a step in the President’s attempt to discriminate against our LGBTQ+ community. Through my role on @HASCDems I’ll keep fighting for equality for our transgender troops. #ProtectTransTroops pic.twitter.com/nlwoR1vHYp
— Rep. Deb Haaland (@RepDebHaaland) April 12, 2019
The administration’s ban on transgender servicemembers begins today. Servicemembers & recruits who are capable & willing should be able to serve our country. I voted to oppose & lift this policy change. However,we must still push for permanent change that will #ProtectTransTroops pic.twitter.com/nIZ9U3btp0
— Rep. Jimmy Panetta (@RepJimmyPanetta) April 12, 2019
No one with the strength and determination to serve in our military should be turned away because of who they are.#FightTheBan #ProtectTransTroops #TransMilitaryBan pic.twitter.com/dIFOkYYNml
— Rep. Jim Costa (@RepJimCosta) April 12, 2019
The #TransMilitaryBan is only going into effect so @realDonaldTrump can force a bigoted agenda on the military that he cannot force on the rest of the American people. We will #FightTheBan and #ProtectTransTroops. pic.twitter.com/nNTOB5Gj8i
— (((Rep. Nadler))) (@RepJerryNadler) April 12, 2019