After Donald Trump assumed the presidency of the United States, he issued an order to "define gender and sex," ending efforts for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the federal government. This measure addresses two cultural issues that were important to his supporter base.
In a call prior to Trump's swearing-in ceremony, an official revealed details of the orders. One of the orders seeks to define only two sexes and would require government agencies to apply these definitions and terms in the implementation of statutes and regulations. Trump had promised during his campaign to eliminate protections for transgender individuals, even in sports, arguing that transgender athletes had an advantage over their competitors.
The order would require agencies to use the term "sex" instead of "gender" when issuing official documents, such as passports and visas, thereby accurately reflecting individuals' sex. It also aims to ensure the protection of the freedom of expression and religion of Americans, as well as prevent taxpayer funds from being used for medical care related to gender transition.
Additionally, the order is said to protect women's rights and their spaces in facilities such as prisons and shelters for victims of rape. On the other hand, the second announced presidential order would end diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in the federal government, aiming to stop practices that have been criticized by conservatives. This would include programs that some consider discriminatory against white Americans.
Although the full scope of these orders is not yet known, they are likely to generate legal challenges. Trump has framed the gender order as a measure to protect women from what he calls "gender ideology" and has promised to take several more actions during his second presidency. Challenges to corporate diversity initiatives and other DEI measures continue to be a topic of debate among conservatives and inclusion proponents.
