Statement in Support of the Department of Defense’s Directive and Associated Policies Permitting the Open Service of Transgender Service Members in the U.S. Military

SUMMARY

The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Rights Committee and Military Affairs and Justice Committee issued a statement in support of the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) policy permitting the open service of transgender Service members in the U.S. military.  The Committees support is based both on the fact that the Policy corrects an extensive history of discrimination against transgender Americans and that the DOD issued the Policy after a comprehensive review process which concluded that a policy of open service is consistent with military readiness and strengthens the U.S. military.  The Committees argue that implementation of the Policy will also avoid constitutional problems and bring the DOD in line with current civil legal standards for sex discrimination.

OUTCOME

Executive Order on Enabling All Qualified Americans to Serve Their Country in Uniform – January 25, 2021