NCTE And SLDN Advise Transgender Service Members Coming Out May Lead To Discharge

sldn.org

Washington, D.C. – As the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” makes open service possible for gay, lesbian, and bisexual service members, transgender people are still unable to serve openly. Existing military medical regulations, unrelated to “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” classify transgender people as unfit to serve. Service members who publicly or privately identify as transgender, access transition-related care or have a related medical diagnosis remain at risk for being discharged. Transgender people interested in serving in the armed forces are barred from entry.