Our View: What Trump’s Re-Election Means for the LGBTQ+ Community
With Donald Trump now set to return to the White House in January 2025, LGBTQ+ communities and allies worldwide are feeling very concerned. His first term saw significant major setbacks in LGBTQ+ protections, fostering deep anxieties about what Trump’s renewed leadership might mean for future policies.
Trump’s previous presidency marked a substantial shift in federal LGBTQ+ protections, deviating from policies that had progressively expanded inclusion and rights. His administration implemented policies which has wide-ranging negative impacts LGBTQ+ rights in healthcare, education, and employment.
Donald Trump's First Term
Ban on Transgender People in the Military
In 2017, Trump announced a policy barring transgender people from serving openly in the U.S. military, citing medical costs and disruption concerns. This decision reversed the Obama administration’s policy, citing medical costs and disruption, curtailing their equal rights in federal service.
Healthcare Protections Rolled Back
Trump’s administration reinterpreted the Affordable Care Act (ACA), allowing healthcare providers and insurers to deny coverage based on gender identity. This shift threatened access to essential healthcare for transgender and non-binary people, increasing fear and uncertainty around healthcare access.
Narrowing of Employment Protections
Although the Supreme Court’s ruling in Bostock v. Clayton County protected LGBTQ+ employees from discrimination under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, Trump’s administration took a limited interpretation of this ruling. This reduced the scope of federal workplace protections for LGBTQ+ people outside direct employment cases.
Rescinding Transgender Student Protections in Education
Early in his term, Trump revoked federal guidelines that allowed transgender students to use bathrooms aligning with their gender identity, leaving transgender youth vulnerable to discriminatory policies in schools.
Judicial Appointments with Lasting Impact
Trump appointed over 200 conservative judges and three Supreme Court justices, shifting the judiciary toward a conservative stance that may affect rulings on LGBTQ+ issues, especially around religious freedoms and discrimination.
Limitations on Federal Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)
In 2020, Trump issued an executive order limiting DEI training across federal agencies, discouraging training on topics like race and gender identity. This stance impacted conversations around allyship and inclusion in federal workplaces.
The Implications of Trump's Re-election
With Trump back in office, LGBTQ+ protections are now at further risk of further setbacks. Here are our anticipated areas of concern:
Reduced Global LGBTQ+ Leadership and Advocacy
Trump’s previous approach to international LGBTQ+ rights was inconsistent, often sidelining advocacy in favour of diplomacy with anti-LGBTQ+ leaders. His renewed administration may further erode global support for LGBTQ+ rights, emboldening governments with restrictive policies.
Healthcare and Gender-Affirming Care
Trump’s re-election could renew restrictions on gender-affirming healthcare. LGBTQ+ people may encounter new barriers to essential care, impacting employee healthcare
Education and LGBTQ+ Youth Protections
Federal protections for transgender students could once again be limited, putting issues like bathroom access and sports participation in the hands of state or local school districts. This may create inconsistent support for LGBTQ+ youth, leaving many in hostile educational environments.
Impacted Employment Protections and Judicial Influence
Narrow interpretations of employment protections may increase, particularly around gender identity. A conservative judiciary may also issue rulings permitting broader religious exemptions, affecting LGBTQ+ rights in employment and public accommodations.
Intensified Scrutiny on Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives
Trump’s re-election could bring heightened scepticism and regulatory barriers to DE&I efforts, especially those that emphasise intersectionality and LGBTQ+ inclusion. Companies with strong DE&I programs may face increased scrutiny, with policies aimed at limiting or scrutinising awareness programmes.
What Should You Do Now?
Check in with your LGBTQ+ talent
Reaffirm your commitment to equality
Strengthen allyship and employee support networks