The Trump administration has ordered the removal of vaccine data and LGBT health-related content from various federal websites. This directive follows a memo issued Wednesday instructing government agencies to eliminate programs that use taxpayer money to promote gender ideology, with the deadline set for Friday afternoon.
The sweeping changes align with President Trump’s previous executive orders, which banned diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives within the government and recognized only two sexes male and female. In a statement, Trump expressed approval of the scrub, stating, “If they want to scrub the websites, that’s OK with me.” DEI programs aim to enhance representation in workplaces, but critics argue they can be discriminatory.
By Saturday morning, several key public health agencies had removed or disabled webpages concerning gender, sexually transmitted diseases, and LGBT health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a primary source for health data, was among those affected, with numerous pages now displaying error messages. The CDC’s website even displayed a yellow banner noting, “CDC’s website is being modified to comply with President Trump’s Executive Orders.”
One notable casualty is the National Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS), which explores topics such as physical activity, nutrition, and sexual behavior among high school students. The data tool for accessing YRBS results was also taken offline. Archived versions of the survey highlight a focus on students who felt discriminated against based on their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Other critical health resources have also been impacted. Pages related to supporting LGBTQ+ youth and health disparities among LGBTQ+ individuals are no longer accessible. Similarly, CDC recommendations for the mpox vaccine, which targets populations including gay and bisexual men, as well as transgender individuals, have been removed or altered.
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has also taken down related information, including from its Office of Civil Rights. Spokesperson Andrew Nixon confirmed that these changes were made in accordance with the President’s orders.
Furthermore, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), responsible for global aid distribution, experienced temporary shutdowns of its website and aid databases. An email to USAID staff revealed that the agency was reviewing all initiatives to eliminate any that promote gender ideology.
These actions represent a significant shift in federal policy, raising concerns about the long-term impact on scientific research and public health data. Some fear the cuts to diversity-focused programs and grants may lead to setbacks in addressing discrimination and underrepresentation in various sectors. The full consequences of these changes, however, may not be felt until years down the line.
