Gender dysphoria rates surge in US Army under Biden administration
- Under President Joe Biden's executive order in January 2021, discrimination against transgender individuals in military service was prohibited.
- The Department of Defense reported that the number of personnel diagnosed with gender dysphoria increased from 1,800 to 3,700, marking a 70% rise.
- Concerns have been raised about the potential reinstatement of a trans ban under a future Trump administration, which could negatively impact military readiness and recruitment.
In January 2021, following the inauguration of President Joe Biden, a significant change in the treatment of transgender individuals in the US military occurred. Biden signed an executive order that reversed the previous policy instituted by former President Donald Trump, which had aimed to ban transgender individuals from military service. This new policy, known as 'Enabling All Qualified Americans to Serve Their Country in Uniform,' prohibited discrimination against transgender individuals and allowed them to serve openly, as well as receive necessary medical care for gender transitions. This shift has been part of a broader trend to promote inclusivity in the armed forces, aligning with the administration’s goals of equality and non-discrimination. Data from the Department of Defense (DoD) highlighted a significant increase in the number of active military personnel diagnosed with gender dysphoria, rising from approximately 1,800 to about 3,700 between 2020 and April 2024, representing a 70% increase during Biden's administration. This rise can be attributed to both the reversal of the previous ban, which discouraged many from coming forward for diagnosis or treatment, and a growing acceptance of transgender individuals in military service. While many transgender people do not experience gender dysphoria, a study suggests that a large portion of those who identify as transgender continue to find their experiences significant, leading to increased visibility and reporting. The implications of this increase are substantial, with both advocates and military officials expressing concern over the impact of potential future policies if Trump were to expel transgender individuals from the military again. Advocates for LGBTQ+ rights within the military have warned that reinstating a ban would not only undermine military readiness but also create administrative challenges and exacerbate recruitment issues. This concern has been echoed by military leaders and experts, emphasizing that diversity and inclusion are essential components for a robust military force. As the political landscape continues to evolve, discussions surrounding military policy and transgender rights remain a contentious topic. While advocates push for continued support and inclusion, there is uncertainty regarding future leadership and their policies towards transgender service members. Republican figures, including Trump, have indicated intentions to reinstate restrictions, leading to fears of a step backward in the progress made during the Biden administration. This ongoing debate highlights the complex intersection of military policy, health care access for transgender individuals, and the broader social perceptions of gender identity in the United States.