Equality Illinois responds to the Supreme Court’s ruling allowing Trump’s cruel Trans military restrictions
Brian C. Johnson, CEO of Equality Illinois, the state’s civil rights organization for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) Illinoisans, issued the following statement:
Today’s Supreme Court ruling lifting two injunctions against Trump’s cruel ban on Trans military service is a slap in the face to Trans service members who have been serving with honor and distinction, many on the front lines. While the ban is not yet in effect, the Court’s decision to lift the injunctions blocking the ban means that Trans service members could soon face discharges.
Rejecting the brave military service of Trans Americans is contrary to our nation’s best values. Our military is strongest when it reflects the full diversity of our broad American community and when all Americans are welcomed to serve. The military’s own research shows Trump’s ban weakens our military. The proposed ban will eventually mean losing qualified, trained service members and will eventually deprive the military of qualified recruits at a time when enlistment numbers are already low.
Equality Illinois will continue to stand with the Trans Community. We oppose this cruel and irrational ban, which serves no purpose other than to weaken the military and punish Trans service members for their patriotism and service.
# # #