Trump's Executive Orders: Experiences Of Transgender People

Laila Abdi

4 min read

Post on May 10, 2025

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Military Ban & its Consequences

One of the most visible and devastating impacts of Trump's executive orders was the ban on transgender individuals serving openly in the military. This policy, announced in 2017, effectively forced transgender service members to either conceal their identity or face discharge. The consequences were far-reaching:

• Loss of employment and benefits: Thousands of transgender service members faced the loss of their careers, pensions, and healthcare benefits, leaving many financially and emotionally vulnerable.
• Increased risk of discrimination and harassment: The ban fueled a climate of fear and discrimination within the military, increasing the risk of harassment, bullying, and even violence against transgender personnel.
• Mental health consequences: The uncertainty, discrimination, and forced concealment led to a surge in mental health issues among transgender service members, including increased rates of stress, anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation.
• Examples of individual stories and legal challenges: Numerous lawsuits were filed challenging the legality and fairness of the ban, with some transgender service members sharing their harrowing experiences of being forced out of the military they dedicated their lives to serving. These legal challenges highlighted the human cost of the policy and spurred national conversation.

The exact number of transgender service members affected remains unclear, but estimates suggest thousands were impacted, significantly impacting military readiness and morale by undermining the principle of inclusivity and equality within the armed forces.

Healthcare Access Restrictions

Beyond the military ban, Trump's executive orders indirectly impacted healthcare access for transgender individuals. While not explicitly targeting transgender healthcare, the administration's actions undermined protections established under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

• The weakening of the ACA reduced access to affordable healthcare overall, disproportionately impacting marginalized communities, including transgender individuals who often face higher healthcare costs due to the need for gender-affirming care.
• Specific examples include restrictions or rollbacks related to funding for gender-affirming care, impacting:
  • Hormone therapy access: Reduced coverage or increased barriers to obtaining crucial hormone replacement therapy.
  • Gender confirmation surgery: Decreased access to medically necessary surgeries, impacting physical and mental well-being.
  • Mental health services related to gender identity: Limited access to vital mental health support for transgender individuals grappling with the complexities of gender identity.

These restrictions negatively impacted the physical and mental well-being of transgender individuals, creating significant barriers to accessing essential healthcare services.

Bathroom Bills and Discrimination

While not directly stemming from a specific executive order, the Trump administration's stance on transgender rights emboldened state-level actions, leading to an increase in discriminatory "bathroom bills" and other anti-trans legislation.

• The federal government's inaction and, at times, tacit endorsement of discriminatory views created a climate where state legislatures felt empowered to pass laws restricting the rights of transgender individuals, particularly regarding bathroom access.
• This fueled a rise in instances of discrimination and violence against transgender people, making public spaces feel unsafe and highlighting the vulnerability of this community.
• Transgender individuals faced increased challenges in accessing public accommodations, including restrooms, changing rooms, and other facilities, leading to significant social isolation and anxiety.

Statistics on hate crimes and discrimination against transgender people reveal a sharp increase during this period, directly linked to the climate created by the administration's policies and rhetoric.

Legal Challenges and Activism

Despite the setbacks, numerous legal challenges were mounted against Trump's executive orders and related discriminatory actions. LGBTQ+ advocacy groups played a crucial role in fighting for transgender rights.

• Significant legal victories and setbacks punctuated the struggle, demonstrating the ongoing fight for transgender equality.
• Key organizations, such as the ACLU and Lambda Legal, spearheaded numerous lawsuits, advocating for the rights and protections of transgender individuals.
• While some legal challenges were successful in partially rolling back discriminatory policies, the fight for comprehensive legal protection and societal acceptance continues.

The ongoing efforts to reverse discriminatory policies illustrate the resilience and determination of the transgender community and its allies.

Conclusion: The Lasting Legacy of Trump's Executive Orders on Transgender Lives

Trump's executive orders and related actions left a lasting negative impact on the lives of transgender people in the United States. The consequences—from military bans to healthcare restrictions and increased discrimination—continue to reverberate through the community. The challenges faced by transgender individuals due to these policies underscore the ongoing need for robust legal protection and widespread societal acceptance. Learn more about the ongoing impact of Trump's executive orders and how you can support transgender equality by supporting organizations like the ACLU and GLAAD, and by advocating for inclusive policies at the local and national levels. The fight for transgender rights requires continued vigilance and action.