FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 25, 2021
CONTACT
Manisha Sunil, West End Strategy Team
msunil@westendstrategy.com; Phone: 202-417-0171
Interfaith Alliance Applauds Repeal of Transgender Military Ban, Reiterates Commitment to LGBTQ+ Americans
WASHINGTON — Today, President Joe Biden signed an executive order repealing the Trump administration’s ban on transgender individuals serving openly in the military. In response, Katy Joseph, director of policy & advocacy for Interfaith Alliance, released the following statement:
“No one should have to hide who they are or who they love, just to keep or secure employment. By repealing the discriminatory ban on trans service members, President Biden makes clear his administration’s commitment to protecting the rights of all Americans – including people of all gender identities.
“Religious freedom and equality are complementary – not contradictory – values. But too often, anti-LGBTQ+ advocates try to distort religious freedom into a right to discriminate. To live as our most authentic selves, every one of us must be afforded dignity and respect within the public sphere. The new administration has already begun to correct the exclusionary and harmful policies of their predecessors.
“On his very first day in office, President Biden signed executive orders implementing the Bostock v. Clayton County decision and affirmatively advancing equity, civil rights, racial justice, and equal opportunity. By working closely with impacted communities, the Biden-Harris administration can ensure that people of all beliefs, identities, and experiences may thrive. We celebrate today’s announcement as one of many to ensure our federal policies are rooted in justice and dignity for all.”
If you are interested in speaking further with Katy, please contact Manisha Sunil at (202) 417-0171 or msunil@westendstrategy.com.
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Interfaith Alliance is a network of people of diverse faiths and beliefs from across the country working together to build a resilient democracy and fulfill America’s promise of religious freedom and civil rights not just for some, but for all. We mobilize powerful coalitions to challenge Christian nationalism and religious extremism, while fostering a better understanding of the healthy boundaries between religion and government. We advocate at all levels of government for an equitable and just America where the freedoms of belief and religious practice are protected, and where all persons are treated with dignity and have the opportunity to thrive. For more information visit interfaithalliance.org.