Donald Trump’s administration plans to officially recognize only two genders—male and female—as part of a series of executive orders to be signed on his first day back in the White House.
The policy, labeled one of two “common sense” orders, will end federal funding and recognition of gender identities outside the male and female binary. Gender definitions will be determined based on whether an individual is born with eggs or sperm, rather than their chromosomes.
Under this directive, facilities such as prisons and shelters for migrants or rape victims will be segregated by sex using these criteria. Additionally, federal documents, including passports, will reflect this definition of gender.
The order will also prohibit requirements at government facilities and workplaces to address transgender individuals using pronouns that align with their gender identity, citing violations of First Amendment protections of free speech and religion.
A second “common sense” order will target diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, terminating federal funding for these programs. Monthly meetings will be held by relevant agencies to evaluate and potentially eliminate existing DEI programs.
At a rally ahead of his inauguration, Trump reiterated his opposition to transgender rights, announcing plans to ban transgender athletes from participating in women’s sports. The move would reverse portions of an executive order signed by President Joe Biden on his first day in office four years ago.
While the order does not impose a nationwide mandate on bathroom usage or sports participation for transgender individuals, many states have already enacted laws addressing these issues.
Civil rights groups have expressed strong opposition to the measures, with legal challenges anticipated even before Trump’s official return to office.
“We will persevere, continue our work, and remain committed to protecting trans rights across the country,” said Ash Orr, spokesperson for Advocates for Trans Equality, in anticipation of the proposed orders.