Inside the Secretive Boards Deciding Trans Troops’ Fate
The Pentagon is relying on closed-door hearings to kick out transgender service members. An Army Reserve lawyer is one of the few who have seen how they really work.
The use of closed-door hearings by the Pentagon to determine the fate of transgender service members raises concerns about transparency and accountability within the military. These private proceedings, often referred to as "medical retention boards," have become a key mechanism for separating transgender individuals from the armed forces. This approach has been criticized by advocates, who argue that it lacks transparency and can lead to inconsistent and biased outcomes.
The reliance on closed-door hearings is particularly notable given the ongoing debate about the role of transgender individuals in the military. In 2016, the Obama administration lifted a ban on transgender individuals serving openly in the military, but the Trump administration subsequently reversed this policy, allowing the military to discharge transgender service members. The use of closed-door hearings has allowed the Pentagon to sidestep public scrutiny and controversy surrounding these discharges.
As the issue continues to unfold, it's essential to watch for developments on potential lawsuits challenging the military's handling of transgender service members. Additionally, changes in policy or leadership could impact the military's approach to this issue. The Army Reserve lawyer who has spoken out about the inner workings of these boards may provide valuable insight into the process, and their perspective could help inform the conversation about the future of transgender individuals in the military.
Originally reported by nytimes.com. MyNews adds analysis for general news readers.