Washington D.C. A U.S. District Judge has issued a permanent injunction against a policy that sought to restrict transgender individuals from serving in the military. Judge Ana Reyes delivered a sharp rebuke of the policy's origins and justification, arguing that it perpetuated discrimination against transgender service members.
The policy, initially proposed during the Trump administration, faced legal challenges from LGBTQ+ advocacy groups who argued it violated the equal protection clause of the Constitution. Judge Reyes sided with the plaintiffs, emphasizing that the policy lacked a rational basis and was rooted in prejudice.
"'All means all,'" Judge Reyes stated in her ruling, highlighting the principle of inclusivity and equal opportunity within the armed forces. The judge scrutinized the Pentagon's process in developing the policy, finding it to be flawed and biased against transgender individuals.
The ruling ensures that transgender people who meet the military's standards can continue to serve openly and without discrimination. Advocacy groups have hailed the decision as a landmark victory for transgender rights and a reaffirmation of the principle of equality under the law. The Department of Defense has not yet issued a statement regarding the ruling.
Judge Blocks Transgender Military Ban, Cites Discrimination
A federal judge has blocked a Trump-era policy that would have restricted transgender people from serving in the military. Judge Ana Reyes strongly criticized the policy's development, stating it was discriminatory. The ruling prevents the Pentagon from implementing the ban, allowing transgender individuals to continue serving openly. This decision marks a significant victory for LGBTQ+ rights advocates.
Source: Read the original article at ABC