Over 1,000 transgender service members will be discharged from the U.S. military, according to Spectrum News, as a new Pentagon policy gives others just days to voluntarily exit.
Lt. Nicolas Talbott, a transgender Army officer and lead plaintiff in a legal challenge, tells Spectrum News the decision threatens careers and readiness. Critics argue the policy ignores the sacrifices trans troops have made and unfairly targets a group long present in American military history. Advocacy groups estimate as many as 15,000 transgender individuals serve or have served.
The Army says trans service members will be treated with dignity, but many fear losing their jobs, healthcare, and support systems. The deadline to self-identify and begin separation is June 6 for active members, and July 7 for reserves.
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