NAIROBI, Kenya — U.S. President Donald Trump kicked off his second term with a bold, controversial move, repealing key LGBTQ protections and dismantling diversity programs across federal agencies.
His actions drew praise from his supporters and sharp criticism from advocacy groups.
With a stroke of his pen, Trump revoked 78 executive orders issued by his predecessor, Joe Biden, many of which aimed to promote equality and protect marginalized communities.
Instead, Trump introduced a new era of policies emphasizing “traditional values” and what he describes as the rejection of “woke culture.”
Trump’s first major action was to repeal federal diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, which he has long criticized as discriminatory against white men.
A newly issued executive order declared, “The Biden administration forced illegal and immoral discrimination programs into virtually all aspects of the federal government.”
The changes also impact protections for LGBTQ Americans. Trump scrapped orders that barred discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity in education, workplaces, and federal healthcare programs.
BREAKING: US President Donald Trump says he will build a society based on morality and merit, not on LGBT principles.
These reversals effectively end federal recognition of non-binary gender identities and eliminate the option to select “X” as a gender marker on U.S. passports.
Trump’s policies mirror the anti-trans rhetoric that defined much of his campaign.
From banning gender-affirming care for minors to threatening legal action against healthcare providers and educators, these positions earned him roaring applause at rallies but sparked outrage among LGBTQ advocates.
Trump’s sweeping executive orders mark a significant pivot from the policies of the Biden administration.
While his supporters see these changes as a return to foundational values, advocacy groups and legal experts are preparing for a lengthy battle in the courts.
For now, one thing is certain: the debate over diversity, equality, and inclusion in America is far from over.
As Trump sets the tone for his second term, the nation remains deeply divided on what equality should look like in the 21st century.
