Defend Trans Service Members - End This Discrimination Now

The recent Pentagon directive mandating the separation of transgender service members from the U.S. military is a reprehensible act of discrimination that undermines the very values our nation stands for. This policy, as reported by ABC News, requires the identification and discharge of transgender personnel unless they secure an exemption—a move that effectively bans their service. Such actions not only strip dedicated individuals of their right to serve but also erode the principles of equality and justice that are foundational to our democracy. Transgender service members have consistently demonstrated exceptional commitment and valor. For instance, U.S. Army Major Alivia Stehlik, a transgender officer with the 101st Airborne Division, has served honorably for 17 years, including a deployment to Afghanistan. Her experience, highlighted by People Magazine, underscores that transgender individuals have not disrupted military readiness or cohesion. To forcibly remove such patriots based solely on their gender identity is not only unjust but also detrimental to the strength and diversity of our armed forces. I urge you to take immediate and decisive action to oppose this discriminatory policy, protect the rights of all service members, and ensure our military reflects the inclusive values of our nation.