In a sweeping action that has sent shockwaves through the LGBTQ+ community, former President Donald Trump has issued an executive order that critics say targets transgender and non-binary individuals. This move mandates the federal government to ensure that passports and other official documents reflect only two sexes, erasing the "X" gender marker option introduced under Joe Biden's presidency. With this order, Trump's administration intensifies its ongoing culture war against the trans community, provoking fear and anxiety among the estimated 1.6 million Americans over the age of 13 who identify as transgender.
The executive order has sparked widespread concern among trans individuals and advocates, who fear it will significantly complicate life for those already facing relentless political attacks. The Republican party reportedly spent nearly $215 million on anti-trans advertisements during the recent election cycle, underscoring the intensity of the current political climate. Max Kuzma, a trans man who began his transition in 2019, expressed his anxiety over what he perceives as an attempt to erase trans and non-binary identities from public life. Like many others, he fears this is only the beginning of a broader strategy to undermine LGBTQ+ rights.
“I have a lot of anxiety over that,” said Zaya Perysian, a trans woman from Los Angeles.
For individuals like Zaya Perysian, the order raises questions about how their daily lives will be impacted. She shared her apprehensions about the future but also emphasized her resolve to fight back.
“Yesterday, I felt like the world was ending. But my mom reminded me that I’m still here, I still have a right to protest, and that’s what I will be doing.”
Meanwhile, Hunter Gromala, a non-binary individual living in Kansas, chose not to engage with the inauguration events. Despite feeling disconnected from the current political narrative, Hunter remains committed to supporting their community.
“Apparently, I don’t deserve their time, energy, or empathy, so I wasn’t going to give them any of mine,” Hunter remarked.
Hunter is determined to remind others that resilience and solidarity are crucial in times of adversity.
“Silence right now is not an option,” Hunter added.
The executive order has also mobilized organizations across the country. Javannah J Davis of Wave Women Inc., a non-profit supporting underserved Bipoc trans and gender non-conforming individuals in Rochester, New York, continues to provide vital resources and support. Corinne Goodwin, executive director of Eastern PA Trans Equity Project, noted the heightened anxiety amongst their constituents. Goodwin spent inauguration day fielding calls from concerned trans individuals and their families.
"I just got off the phone with a mom who was in tears because she’s afraid for the mental health of her transgender child,” Goodwin shared.
Goodwin also highlighted the backlash faced by those celebrating small victories within the community.
"We made a social media post about a person who had their legal name changed successfully, and overnight I woke up to over 100 people sending horrible replies. I imagine that is going to continue for a while."
As advocates rally against this executive order, they find allies among lawmakers who are pushing for more honest conversations about trans rights. U.S. Representative Seth Moulton from Massachusetts criticized Democrats for avoiding difficult discussions.
“Democrats spend way too much time trying not to offend anyone rather than being brutally honest about the challenges many Americans face,” Moulton stated.
He further expressed personal concerns about the implications of trans athletes participating in sports.
“I have two little girls, I don’t want them getting run over on a playing field by a male or formerly male athlete, but as a Democrat I’m supposed to be afraid to say that.”
Legal experts like Chase Strangio are quick to note that executive orders do not have the power to change existing laws outright.
"do not and cannot change the [existing] laws," Strangio clarified.
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has vowed to challenge any anti-LGBTQ+ legislation in court, promising to fight for trans rights wherever possible. As tensions escalate, many in the trans community echo Corinne Goodwin’s sentiment about perseverance.
“I often talk about how trans people are like sharks: if we don’t keep swimming, we die, so we have to move forward,” Goodwin explained.