On Tuesday, January 22nd, 2019, the United States Supreme Court made a decision that has sent shockwaves throughout the country. In a 5-4 vote, they ruled to allow a military trans ban to go into effect, potentially setting a precedent to accept the anti-trans myth behind Trump’s executive order. This decision not only imperils the rights of transgender individuals but also puts their lives at risk.
This decision stems from President Trump’s executive order back in July 2017, banning transgender individuals from serving in the military. This order came as a surprise, as the previous administration had lifted the ban on transgender individuals serving openly in the military. Trump’s reasoning for the ban was that it would disrupt military operations and be a financial burden. However, numerous studies have shown that transgender individuals do not hinder military readiness and the cost of providing healthcare for transgender service members is minimal.
Despite this, the Trump administration has continued to push forward with their discriminatory ban, causing chaos and confusion within the military. Transgender individuals who were already serving openly were faced with uncertainty and fear of being discharged. This blatant discrimination not only goes against the values of equality and inclusion that the United States stands for, but it also puts the lives of trans service members at risk.
The Supreme Court’s ruling is a major setback for the LGBTQ+ community and a blow to the progress that has been made in recent years towards equal rights for all. By allowing the trans ban to go into effect, the Court has set a dangerous precedent that could have far-reaching consequences for the rights of not just transgender individuals, but all marginalized groups.
The justification for this decision was rooted in the false and harmful myth that transgender individuals are unfit to serve in the military. This myth has been perpetuated by the Trump administration and its supporters, despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary. By allowing this myth to dictate policy, the Supreme Court has failed to uphold its duty to protect the rights of all individuals, regardless of their gender identity.
This decision also has serious implications for the future of LGBTQ+ rights in the United States. With the current political climate, the LGBTQ+ community has already faced numerous attacks on their rights and protections. This ruling only adds to the growing list of challenges that they must overcome in their fight for equality.
But this is not just a setback for the LGBTQ+ community; it is a threat to the principles of justice and fairness that our country is built upon. The Supreme Court’s decision sends a message that discrimination and bigotry are acceptable, and that the rights of certain groups can be disregarded without consequence.
The consequences of this decision will be felt beyond the military. Transgender individuals across the country will now face increased discrimination and prejudice, as their rights are further eroded. This decision also has the potential to embolden those who hold anti-LGBTQ+ views, leading to an increase in hate crimes and violence against the community.
It is crucial that we stand in solidarity with our transgender brothers and sisters in the face of this injustice. We must continue to fight for their rights and demand that they are treated with the same dignity and respect as any other American citizen. We cannot let fear and ignorance dictate policies that affect the lives of our fellow Americans.
In the words of Justice Sonia Sotomayor, the only dissenting vote in this ruling, “Our military is strongest when it reflects the diversity of our country.” Trans individuals have served and continue to serve in the military with honor and bravery, and they deserve to be treated with the same respect and opportunities as their cisgender counterparts.
The Supreme Court’s decision to let the military trans ban go into effect is a devastating blow, but it should not discourage us from fighting for justice and equality for all. We must continue to push for policies and laws that protect the rights of all individuals, regardless of their gender identity. Together, we can work towards a future where discrimination and bigotry have no place in our society, and all individuals can live their lives authentically and without fear.
