OutRight Action International has reacted to a Department of Health and Human Services ruling in the United States, which effectively erases protection from discrimination based on gender identity by doctors, hospitals and health insurance companies.
The organisation, which works at a global, regional and national level to eradicate the persecution, inequality and violence lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, and queer (LGBTIQ) people face around the world, say this is one of numerous efforts of the Trump administration to restrict the definition of gender to one of biological sex, and thus erase multiple protections for trans people put in place under the Obama administration.
A press release issued by the Department of Health and Human Services highlights that the department will be ‘returning to the government’s interpretation of sex discrimination according to the plain meaning of the word ‘sex’ as male or female and as determined by biology.’ 
Jessica Stern, Executive Director of OutRight Action International, said: ‘This is an absolutely despicable move by the Trump Administration. Erasing protection from discrimination in healthcare for trans people during Pride month, when the spotlight shines on equality for LGBTQ+ people, cannot be a coincidence.
‘It is a direct attack on the basic rights of trans people, it marks a step backwards for gender justice, and stands in stark contrast to international human rights standards. Countries as diverse as Pakistan, Uruguay and Portugal have taken strides in recognising trans identities and codifying protections against discrimination in law in recent years.
‘OutRight unequivocally condemns this callous move. Trans rights are human rights. There can be no debate about it.’
To see the full release, click here.
For more info on OutRight Action International, click here.
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