Enabling All Qualified Americans To Serve Their Country in Uniform

Jan 28, 2021

Summary

Removes the ban on transgender individuals serving in the military, allowing them to serve openly and free from discrimination.

What problem does this solve?

A previous policy blocked most transgender people from joining or staying in the military. This order reverses that policy, stating that gender identity should not prevent someone from serving if they are qualified.

What does this order do?

Reverses ban on transgender military service

Cancels previous presidential orders that blocked transgender individuals from serving in the military.

Allows open service for transgender individuals

Creates a new policy to ensure all transgender people who meet the standards can serve openly and without discrimination.

Prohibits separation based on gender identity

Immediately stops the military from firing, discharging, or denying reenlistment to service members because of their gender identity.

Reviews records of previously discharged members

Requires the military to find and review the records of service members who were discharged because of their gender identity and correct any injustices.

Creates a process for gender transition while serving

Directs the Department of Defense and Homeland Security to establish a process for service members who wish to transition gender while in the military.

Who does this affect?

Transgender individuals
U.S. Armed Forces
U.S. Coast Guard

What is the real world impact?

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Promotes equality and civil rights

Establishes that gender identity should not be a barrier to service, aligning military policy with principles of fairness and non-discrimination for all Americans.

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Strengthens national security through diversity

Believes that a military composed of diverse Americans is stronger and more effective. Allowing all qualified people to serve improves national security.

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Reverses a previous administration's policy

Directly revokes memorandums from the prior administration that banned transgender military service, arguing the ban was not based on sound evidence.

When does this start?

This order takes effect immediately on January 25, 2021, and sets a deadline for a progress report.

Progress report to the President

The Secretary of Defense and Secretary of Homeland Security must report on their progress within 60 days of the order (by March 26, 2021).