In a powerful display of support for transgender rights, a federal judge has questioned the validity of an executive order banning transgender service members from joining the military. The order, signed by President Trump, has been met with widespread criticism and opposition from LGBTQ+ advocates and allies. Judge Ana Reyes, a Biden-appointed federal judge, expressed her skepticism about the order, stating that it is based on “unadulterated animus” towards transgender individuals.
The judge’s comments came during a hearing in a federal lawsuit challenging the executive order, which was filed by six transgender plaintiffs who currently serve in the military and two who were in the process of enlisting. The lawsuit argues that the order violates the equal protection clause of the Constitution and discriminates against transgender individuals who wish to serve their country.
Reyes took issue with the language used in the executive order, which describes transgender individuals as “dishonest” and “immodest.” She asked the Department of Justice lawyer representing the Trump administration if he believed that the language used in the order expressed animus towards transgender individuals. When the lawyer replied that he didn’t know, Reyes responded, “We are dealing with unadulterated animus, an entire group of people who have served this country, calling them liars!”
The judge also challenged the idea that the order is necessary for military readiness, citing the fact that transgender service members have been serving openly in the military since 2016 without any issues. She pointed out that the order would impact an estimated 9,000 to 14,000 transgender service members, many of whom have already transitioned and are stable in their identities.
One of the plaintiffs, Army Reserve 2nd Lt. Nicolas Talbott, a 31-year-old transgender man, spoke out about the impact of the order on his life and career. Talbott, who transitioned from female to male in 2012, said that he had always wanted to serve in the military and had worked hard to meet the physical demands of basic training. He emphasized that his gender identity has no bearing on his ability to serve and that he is proud to be a part of the military.
The lawsuit is part of a larger effort to challenge discriminatory policies and promote equality for transgender individuals. As the case moves forward, it is clear that the fight for transgender rights will continue to be a major issue in the years to come. With the support of judges like Reyes and the bravery of individuals like Talbott, it is hopeful that one day all individuals, regardless of their gender identity, will be able to serve their country with dignity and respect.
The fact that a recent Gallup poll shows 58% of Americans support transgender individuals in the military is a testament to the growing acceptance and understanding of transgender issues. However, there is still much work to be done to ensure that transgender individuals are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve. As Judge Reyes so eloquently put it, “We are dealing with unadulterated animus,” and it is time for our country to move beyond discrimination and towards a more inclusive and equitable society.