LGBT activists mobilize to challenge Trump’s ‘extreme gender ideology’ executive orders

LGBT activists and groups are mobilizing to block gender-related executive orders signed by President Donald Trump since taking office. These orders fulfill one of Trump’s key campaign promises to crack down on what he calls “gender ideology extremism.” Legal challenges are expected in the coming weeks as these orders target transgender individuals in various ways.
One of the executive orders reinstates the ban on transgender troops in the military. This move has been met with backlash from activists who argue that it goes against fundamental American values of equal opportunity and merit-based judgment. Organizations like GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders (GLAD Law) and the National Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR) have filed lawsuits against the administration for this ban, citing equal protection grounds.
The lawsuit, Talbott v. Trump, was brought forward by six active-duty service members and two individuals attempting to enlist. These plaintiffs include decorated service members who have been recognized for their bravery and dedication to their country. They argue that the ban on transgender troops is unjust and discriminatory.
Another lawsuit challenges Trump’s executive order that ends medical transgender treatments for federal prisoners. The lawsuit, brought by a transgender inmate receiving taxpayer-funded medical treatments, claims that the order violates the Fifth and Eighth amendments. The inmate, referred to as “Maria Moe,” is at risk of losing access to necessary medical care to treat her gender dysphoria.
Multiple lawsuits have been filed against Trump’s other executive orders, particularly those related to immigration. The U.S. Office of Personnel Management recently issued a memo directing federal agencies to acknowledge biological sex as binary, with women being biologically female and men being biologically male. Trump has also stated that federal funds will not be used to promote what he calls “gender ideology.”
As activists continue to fight against these discriminatory policies, more legal challenges are expected in the coming weeks. The White House has not responded to requests for comment on the litigation. Jamie Joseph is a writer who covers politics and leads Fox News Digital coverage of the Senate. Louis Casiano contributed to this report.