1. United States
2. Mich.
3. Letter

I am writing to express my deep concern and strong opposition to the six anti-transgender amendments recently added to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). These amendments represent a dangerous and discriminatory attack on the rights and dignity of transgender individuals serving in our military and their families. The proposed amendments include alarming restrictions on health insurance for transgender service members and their families, bans on transgender participation in women's athletic programs, bathroom restrictions, exclusion of gender identity from military surveys, and a ban on Pride flags at Department of Defense workplaces. These measures are not only unjust but also undermine the readiness and cohesion of our armed forces. It is particularly distressing that 17 Democrats voted to advance this bill despite these harmful amendments. This is not a partisan issue; it is a matter of basic human rights and military effectiveness. Our transgender service members have proven their dedication and capability time and again. Denying them and their families essential healthcare, excluding them from activities, and erasing their identities does not serve our national interests. The history of discrimination against the transgender community in military policy is long and painful. We must not allow these new amendments to reverse the progress we've made towards equality and inclusion in our armed forces. Each of these amendments, if passed, would have far-reaching negative impacts on the lives of transgender service members and the overall morale of our military. I urge you to take immediate action to oppose these amendments and prevent their inclusion in the final NDAA. The vote on this bill is imminent, and your voice is crucial in protecting the rights of all service members. Please stand up for equality, dignity, and the strength of our diverse military by voting against any version of the NDAA that includes these discriminatory measures. The consequences of allowing these amendments to pass would be severe and long-lasting. We must act now to ensure that our military remains a place of equal opportunity and respect for all who choose to serve our country, regardless of their gender identity. I implore you to use your position and influence to strike down these harmful amendments and uphold the values of equality and inclusion that our nation stands for.