Transgender Issues

Although ‘Don't Ask, Don't Tell' does not target service members on the basis of gender identity, the law adversely impacts all members of the military. The ‘Don't Ask, Don't Tell' law is sexual orientation specific and therefore does not prohibit transgender persons from serving in the military unless the transgender service member also identifies as gay, lesbian or bisexual. Oftentimes, however, gender non-conforming service members are perceived as lesbian or gay and therefore may be impacted by ‘Don't Ask, Don't Tell' in one way or another.

Several other military regulations effectively prohibit service by transgender persons. The military has a very binary view of gender and, as a result, has specific regulations with very precise language based on that view. The military medical system does not recognize the World Professional Association for Transgender Health's Standards of Care for Gender Identity Disorders and will not provide the medical support necessary for transitioning service members. For service members who are thinking of transitioning while in the military using non-military medical providers, it is important to note that each service branch has 1) specific regulations regarding medical conditions they consider to be "disqualifying"; 2) regulations regarding members seeking health care from providers outside of the military system which may include reporting requirements; and 3) uniform and grooming standards by gender.

For more information on these or other issues affecting transgender service members, please contact SLDN for assistance.

Click here to view the 7/12/10 joint release between SLDN and the National Center for Transgender Equality (NCTE) regarding transgender servicemembers.

Click here to download the complete Transgender Service Members Fact Sheet in .pdf format.