In his inauguration speech on Monday, President Donald Trump announced a controversial policy shift that will officially limit federal recognition of gender to two categories: male and female.
Donald Trump: ‘America only recognises two genders’
This decision effectively ends practices implemented in some states and federal programs that allowed for the recognition of a third gender or non-binary options in official documentation.
“As of today, it will henceforth be the official policy of the United States government that there are only two genders, male and female,” Trump declared.
The statement, a departure from the traditional unifying tone of inaugural addresses, reinforced themes central to Trump’s re-election campaign.
Trump also criticised what he referred to as “gender ideology,” a term often used by conservatives to challenge policies supporting non-traditional gender identities.
The president stated that federal funds would no longer be used to support programs that promote gender-neutral policies, gender-affirming medical procedures, or initiatives deemed to advance “social engineering” on issues of race and gender.
During a rally on the eve of his inauguration, Trump reportedly reiterated his intention to restrict transgender participation in sports and limit access to gender-affirming healthcare, sparking debates across the political spectrum.
What this means for LGBTQIA+ groups in the US
The policy declaration marks a significant rollback of transgender and non-binary rights.
Under the new directive, transgender individuals may face challenges in accessing gender-affirming care and changing gender markers on government-issued identification.
Federal programs that once recognised non-binary and gender-diverse individuals could see reduced funding or face elimination altogether.
The executive orders are expected to face legal challenges, particularly in states that have implemented inclusive gender recognition policies.