Co-Chairs of the Congressional LGBT Equality Caucus released the following statement in response to the Supreme Court decision to allow the transgender military ban to take effect. On Tuesday, the Supreme Court in a 5-4 decision granted the Trump Administration’s request for the discriminatory ban to be implemented while legal challenges continue to move through the courts.
“President Trump’s decision to ban trans servicemembers from the military was disgraceful, disrespectful to those serving, and a national security risk.” said LGBT Equality Caucus Co-Chair Rep. Mark Takano (CA-41). “By giving priority to his anti-LGBTQ discriminatory agenda, he has sidelined brave, qualified individuals who are making great sacrifices in service to our nation. The Supreme Court’s decision to allow this ban to go into effect is extremely disappointing and devastating news for the thousands of transgender troops serving our country who now are at risk of being discharged. Numerous Courts have ruled that this ban is discriminatory and military Generals have raised concerns about its effects on military readiness. Every individual who is willing to wear the uniform and defend our American ideals deserves our respect. While their Commander-in-Chief belittles their service, we will continue to support trans troops and fight for their Constitutional protections.”
“This backward decision is a blow to the rights and dignity of thousands of transgender service members who put their lives on the line every single day to defend our country," said LGBT Equality Caucus Co-Chair Rep. Chris Pappas (NH-4). “The transgender military service ban makes us less safe and politicizes our military. I am thoroughly disappointed that the Court allowed the ban to go into effect. Today's decision is a sobering reminder of the work ahead of us to protect LGBTQ rights and demand full equality. This ruling also underscores the importance of enacting comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation, which is why one of my top priorities is passing the Equality Act. I'm proud to be part of the most diverse class of freshman in the history of Congress, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to implement inclusive policies that allow all Americans to achieve their full potential.”
“Those who want to serve our country should have the ability to do so, plain and simple.” said LGBT Equality Caucus Co-Chair Rep. Katie Hill (CA-25). “I admire the individuals who put their lives on the line for us each day, regardless of their gender identity. Being transgender does not make you unfit for duty and we should never compromise our national security to enable someone else’s discrimination.”
“I’m extremely disappointed in the Court’s decision to ban transgender service members from serving in our military. These are people who selflessly put their lives on the line to protect this country and our values and they deserve our respect,” said LGBT Equality Caucus Co-Chair Rep. Angie Craig (MN-02). “Today, the Court moved our nation backward. Now it’s our responsibility to fight back to restore the dignity of all service members.”
“To all the brave trans troops serving our country: I stand with you.” said LGBT Equality Caucus Co-Chair Rep. Sharice Davids (KS-03). “As you have committed to protecting our nation, we will continue fighting to protect your rights here at home. Today’s court ruling is a stark reminder of the inequalities that exist and the work still left ahead of us.”
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