President Donald Trump has signed a series of executive orders aimed at reversing several Biden-era military policies. In his first week back in the White House, Trump has made significant changes, including reversing the prohibition on military discharges based on gender identity. The orders also seek to bar "invented and identification-based pronoun usage" within the Defense Department.
One of the orders prohibits males from using or sharing "sleeping, changing, or bathing facilities designated for females." These actions are part of a larger wave of executive decisions made by Trump, underscoring his administration's intent to reshape specific military policies. Among these, Trump has directed the construction of a U.S. version of Israel's "Iron Dome" missile defense system, with plans due within 60 days.
Additionally, Trump has signed an order to abolish all diversity, equity, and inclusion practices in the Defense and Homeland Security departments. This directive requires the secretaries of Defense and Homeland Security to review the curricula of U.S. service academies and other defense academic institutions to ensure alignment with the new order. The aim is to promote "readiness and effectiveness of our Armed Forces."
The executive orders also attempt to undo Biden-era initiatives related to gender inclusivity in the military. Trump's administration seeks to reinstate individuals who were discharged during the Covid-19 pandemic for refusing vaccination against the virus. These actions are intended to "ensure the readiness and effectiveness of our Armed Forces" by reversing Biden-era policies.
However, these orders have not gone without criticism. Advocacy groups, such as Advocates for Trans Equality, have expressed strong opposition.
"The Trump administration's unconscionable attack on trans servicemembers is an insult to the dignity, honor, and integrity of thousands of patriotic Americans who have committed to serving this country simply because of who they are," stated Olivia Hunt, director of federal policy at Advocates for Trans Equality.
"The new policies it directs the Department of Defense to adopt are discriminatory, undermine core military values, and disrespect the sacrifices made by trans servicemembers and their families," Hunt further commented.
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