Former U.S. President Donald Trump signed executive orders dismantling numerous policies aimed at promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and protecting LGBTQ rights. The new decrees, which explicitly endorse a binary view of gender and halt federal diversity programs, signal a sharp departure from the policies championed by his predecessor, Joe Biden.
On the campaign trail, Trump frequently criticized DEI initiatives, claiming they discriminated against white men. These claims culminated in an executive order declaring such programs illegal and immoral, accusing them of fostering division within the federal government and corporate sectors. Among the repealed orders were those safeguarding LGBTQ Americans from discrimination in education and healthcare, as well as equity initiatives for minority groups, including Black, Hispanic, and Pacific Islander communities.
Speaking to a crowd of supporters in Washington, Trump framed these changes as a fulfillment of his campaign promise to fight against what he labeled “woke culture.” His administration also issued an executive order mandating federal agencies to recognize only two genders male and female eliminating the option for nonbinary designations, such as the “X” marker on passports.
“Agencies shall take all necessary steps, as permitted by law, to end the Federal funding of gender ideology,” the order declared. The directive also pledged to prioritize language and policies that define men and women based solely on biological characteristics.
The policies are expected to face significant legal challenges, particularly from LGBTQ advocacy groups and civil rights organizations. Critics warn the changes could limit access to gender-affirming healthcare, especially in federally funded programs like Medicare and Medicaid, and in federal prisons.
At the historic Stonewall Inn in New York City, a symbol of LGBTQ resistance, community members voiced defiance. “It’s a horrible place to be when you are unaffirmed and alone in this world,” said Angel Bullard, a 22-year-old transgender student.
Experts note a sharp rise in distress calls to LGBTQ support lines, with the LGBT National Help Center reporting an increase from 300 to over 2,000 daily calls since Trump’s announcement.
Anti-trans rhetoric, a consistent theme in Trump’s campaign rallies, has drawn widespread criticism from LGBTQ organizations, which argue these policies undermine hard-won rights and protections. With the 2024 elections looming, the LGBTQ Victory Fund underscored the urgency of electing pro-equality candidates to counter the growing backlash.
