History warns us of the dangers of scapegoating marginalized groups, and the recent directive to purge transgender service members from the military is a chilling example. Authoritarian regimes have long targeted specific populations to consolidate power, stoke fear, and weaken democratic institutions. In Nazi Germany, purges of Jewish citizens and political dissidents were justified under the guise of “national security.” The Soviet Union did the same to perceived enemies of the state. When governments begin removing people based on identity rather than merit, democracy is at risk.
This policy is not just cruel—it directly undermines U.S. military readiness and national security. The Pentagon has spent years studying inclusion, and experts overwhelmingly agree that allowing transgender individuals to serve does not harm effectiveness. A 2016 RAND Corporation study found that open service had “no significant impact” on unit cohesion or operational effectiveness. Countries like the UK, Canada, and Israel allow transgender individuals to serve without issue. This directive is not about military effectiveness—it is about appeasing an extreme ideology at the expense of those who have sworn to defend our nation.
The U.S. military has relied on transgender personnel for decades. Cmdr. Emily Shilling, a Naval aviator, flew 60 combat missions over Iraq and Afghanistan. Kristin Beck, a former Navy SEAL, earned the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart for her service. These individuals, and countless others, put their lives on the line for their country. To remove them now, based solely on gender identity, is an act of political cruelty that betrays the values of service, sacrifice, and duty.
Why This Matters
Authoritarian leaders gain control by silencing opposition and stripping rights from those they deem expendable. This is not just about transgender service members—it is about whether the United States upholds its democratic values. When we tolerate injustice against one group, we set the stage for broader abuses of power. Today, it’s transgender troops. Tomorrow, it could be another community.
We must act now. Call on your representatives to stop this purge by using Resistbot or texting SIGN PPYZVX to 50409.
Here’s a letter you can send to your elected officials:
Subject: Urgent Action Needed to Protect Transgender Service Members
Dear [Elected Official],
The recent directive to remove transgender individuals from military service is a blatant act of discrimination that undermines the very principles our nation was founded upon. Such policies not only strip dedicated service members of their right to serve but also erode the core values of equality and justice that define our democracy. The parallels to oppressive regimes of the past are becoming increasingly evident, and it is imperative that we act now to prevent history from repeating itself.
Transgender service members have consistently demonstrated exceptional commitment and valor. For instance, Cmdr. Emily Shilling, a U.S. Naval aviator, has completed two tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, flying 60 combat missions. She was honored with the 2022 LGBTQ+ Corporate Advocate of the Year Outie Award for her unwavering dedication. Similarly, Kristin Beck, a former Navy SEAL, earned the Bronze Star with Combat Distinguishing Service and the Purple Heart during her 20 years of service. These individuals exemplify the valor and dedication that strengthen our armed forces.
Implementing policies that exclude transgender individuals not only deprives our military of talented and committed personnel but also fosters an environment of intolerance and division. The Human Rights Campaign emphasizes that such actions are “morally reprehensible” and fundamentally un-American. Moreover, the attorneys general of multiple states have argued that this directive is unconstitutional and harms national security.
I implore you to take a definitive stand against this discriminatory policy. Our transgender service members have sacrificed immensely for our freedoms; it is now our duty to protect their rights and honor their service. Upholding the principles of equality and justice is not only a moral imperative but also essential to the strength and unity of our nation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
The fight for equality is the fight for democracy. Stand up now before it’s too late.