Monica Helms, trans veteran and creator of Trans Pride Flag
In July, President Trump announced via Twitter, “The United States Government will not accept or allow [transgender troops] to serve in any capacity in the U.S. Military.” His tweets were followed by an executive order banning transgender people from serving in the military.
Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly of the Federal District Court for the District of Columbia found the executive order to be based on Trump’s “disapproval of transgender people generally” and likely to be unconstitutional. She temporarily blocked the ban from taking effect. Judge Kollar-Kotelly further noted: “There is absolutely no support for the claim that the ongoing service of transgender people would have any negative effect on the military at all. In fact, there is considerable evidence that it is the discharge and banning of such individuals that would have such effects.” The constitutionality of this executive order continues to be litigated.
A bipartisan group of senators and representatives has decided to take action by introducing bills in the House and Senate to protect servicemembers on account of their gender identity. As Jews, we have an obligation to join in the battle to protect the dignity of all people. Tell your senators and representatives to protect the rights of transgender servicemembers. Click here to stop the discriminatory ban!
