I think we all expected this. For some reason I had not expected the DOD to have taken such a slash and burn approach to Transgender service. As announced last night the DOD has taken the position to muster out all Active-Duty Transgender Service members.
“This is a purge of unprecedented magnitude. There is nothing confusing or complicated about it. The military has 30 days to identify anyone it thinks is transgender, and the only way to avoid discharge is to prove you are not transgender. This is an unconscionable ban that forces the removal of talented service members who put their lives on the line for our nation and slams the door on qualified patriots who meet every standard and want nothing more than to serve their country.”
—Jennifer Levi, Senior Director of Transgender & Queer Rights
I expect there will be legal maneuvering which could result in delays. There are around 15,000 Active-Duty Transgender Service members in the crosshairs of this action. How do we maintain National Security when we cart blanch remove those highly skilled service members? In whatever way we can we must support them. We can’t stand down now. The next hit could be all LGBTQ+ people, our marriages, diversity in work force, and our standing in society are in jeopardy.
Ever Vigilant
Penn Baker Veteran USN
505-281-2269
AVER National President
AVER National Transgender Liaison
We must not stand by and watch another’s civil rights violated and do nothing,
lest we make it more likely our rights will be violated.
