Trump Targets Transgender Rights with New Executive Orders in 2025
President Donald Trump has signed several executive orders aimed at the transgender community since returning to office. These orders are a part of his ongoing efforts to change policies around transgender rights in the U.S.
Key Executive Orders Impacting Transgender Individuals
Transgender Military Ban
Trump’s first executive order banned transgender individuals from serving in the U.S. military.
Transgender Women in Prisons
The second order mandates that transgender women no longer be housed in women’s prisons.
Transgender Women in Sports
On February 5, 2025, Trump signed another order targeting transgender women in sports. The executive order, titled Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports, seeks to prevent transgender women from competing in women’s sports.
Changes to the Olympic Games
Trump’s latest order also calls for changes to Olympic policies ahead of the 2028 Summer Games in Los Angeles. The Trump administration is urging the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to amend eligibility standards for women’s events, making biological sex the determining factor, rather than gender identity or testosterone levels.
Enforcement of Sex-Specific Policies in Schools and Sports
The order also calls for stronger enforcement of single-sex sports and changing room policies in schools and athletic organizations. Schools and athletic groups that don’t comply with these policies may face consequences.
Review of Visa Policies for Transgender Athletes
Additionally, the order directs the Secretary of State and the Department of Homeland Security to review visa policies for transgender athletes seeking to compete in U.S.-based events.
Trump’s Statement on Women’s Sports
Before signing the controversial order, Trump stated, “From now on, women’s sports will be only for women.” He also made it clear that his administration will not allow transgender women to compete in women’s Olympic events in 2028.
Trump also emphasized, “In Los Angeles in 2028, my administration will not stand by and watch men beat female athletes. We’re not going to let that happen.”
Potential Impact on 2028 Olympic Games
Although the LA28 Organizing Committee has not yet responded, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) expressed confidence in working with the Trump administration to address these issues.
Support for Affected Individuals
If you or someone you know is affected by these policies and needs support, you can contact the LGBT National Hotline at 888-843-4564. The hotline is available Monday to Friday from 4 p.m. to 12 a.m. ET and Saturdays from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. ET.
