Democrats introduce bill to protect transgender service members

[Lori Dee]

Democrats introduce bill to protect transgender service members
Link to Full Article
The Hill - Cheyanne M. Daniels
02/24/25 6:46 PM ET

A group of Democrats have introduced a bill to protect diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in the military following President Trump's January executive order to dismantle such programming.

The 'Equal and Uniform Treatment in the Military Act – or the EQUITY Act – was introduced Monday by Rep. Marilyn Strickland (D-Wash.), the only Black woman on the House Armed Services Committee.

The bill lists the history of presidents and Congress removing barriers for servicemembers of all races, genders, and religions, including former President Obama's repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" and former President Biden's policy rescinding a law prohibiting transgender individuals from serving in the armed forces.

"A diverse military is a strong military, and addressing our recruitment and retention challenges is vital to... our national security and ensuring readiness," said Strickland, Secretary of the Congressional Black Caucus. "Any person who is qualified to serve our country should be able to do so without facing discrimination."

Nine other Democrats, including members of the Congressional Black Caucus and Congressional Hispanic Caucus, have co-sponsored the bill.

Shortly after taking office, Trump signed an executive order ending diversity programs in the military and directed Pentagon officials to review its policy on transgender troops.

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[ChrissyRyan]

I hope this all can be worked out fairly.