The internet went into a rage on Wednesday after Donald Trump tweeted that the US government would no longer accept transgender people into the military.
He stated that the government should not be burdened with the ‘medical costs and disruption’ of having trans-people in the army. Experts have challenged his view, stating that military acceptance should be determined by a person’s capabilities instead of gender or sexual preference.
After consultation with my Generals and military experts, please be advised that the United States Government will not accept or allow……
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 26, 2017
President Trump did not specify when the ban would go into effect. US military officers and generals say that senior officials have not been consulted about this decision. According to the Age, one anonymous, active-duty military officer said that Mr Trump had not been in step with the military: “Our service personnel today don’t give a damn about the personal lives of their comrades so long as they know they can trust them when it counts.”
….Transgender individuals to serve in any capacity in the U.S. Military. Our military must be focused on decisive and over-whelming…..
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 26, 2017
US Marine General Joseph Dunford told Reuters that “There will be no modifications to the current policy until the President’s direction has been received by the Secretary of Defense and the Secre-tary has issued implementation guidance,” assuring the public that the US military will “treat all of our personnel with respect”.
….Transgender individuals to serve in any capacity in the U.S. Military. Our military must be focused on decisive and over-whelming…..
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 26, 2017
The declaration has sparked up protests and rallies all over America, especially because Trump promised to fight for LGTBIQ people’s rights during his candidacy. Now, active-duty and reserve transgender service members are left in limbo and uncertainty. However, the decision has received praise by some Republicans and conservative activists.