Trump’s “Common Sense” Orders: Only Two Genders, Trans Rights Under Attack
Donald Trump’s administration plans to officially recognize only two genders: male and female.
This decision will be part of a series of executive orders the new president will sign on his first day back in office. It’s one of two orders labeled as “common sense” and will stop all federal funding and recognition of gender identities.
The new definition of male and female will depend on whether individuals are born with sperm or eggs, rather than chromosomes.
Under the order, places like prisons and shelters for migrants or rape victims will be separated by sex based on this definition. Federal documents, including passports, will also be affected.
The order will also block rules requiring government facilities and workplaces to address transgender people using pronouns that match their gender identity.
Trump’s team argues that these requirements violate the First Amendment’s right to free speech and religion.
The second “common sense” order focuses on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, cutting their federal funding. Officials said agencies will meet monthly to review DEI programs and decide whether to shut them down.
At a rally before his inauguration, Trump also announced he would stop trans athletes from participating in women’s sports. This move will reverse part of an executive order signed by President Joe Biden on his first day in office four years ago.
Throughout his campaign, Trump has openly opposed expanding rights for transgender and nonbinary individuals.
The order does not appear to make nationwide rules on which bathrooms transgender people can use or which sports they can join, though several states have already passed their laws on these matters.
Civil rights groups are preparing to challenge Trump’s restrictions in court. “We will continue our work and protect trans rights across the country,” said Ash Orr from Advocates for Trans Equality.
Trump’s “Common Sense” Orders: Only Two Genders, Trans Rights Under Attack
