Considering recent policy shifts, a group of scientists is advocating for proactive measures to protect transgender and gender nonconforming (TGNC) individuals. They assert that the “Trump administration” has made “Transgender and gender nonconforming (TGnC) people” a “primary target,” citing “multiple executive orders” that “seek to erase TGnC protections; mandate denial of gender identity; and ban diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).”

These scientists express concern that “changes to federal funding policies related to TGnC individuals and DEI threaten to curtail academic diversity and freedom.” They argue that institutions can no longer afford to remain neutral and must actively defend targeted communities to prevent further harm. The call to action emphasizes the need for “direct, consistent, and rapid action” from researchers at all levels, “from undergraduates to university presidents.”

The impact on TGNC Scientists

The scientists highlight the particular vulnerability of TGNC scientists, especially “TGNC individuals of color, immigrants, and those with disabilities,” for whom “invisibility is not an option.” They beleive that “anticipatory obedience, and even passive allyship, is insufficient.”

“institutions must abandon neutrality and defend targeted communities to minimize further harm.”

Call to Action

The appeal from “queer and TGNC scientists” is a direct response to what they perceive as an escalating threat to the TGNC community within academic and research environments. They urge colleagues to move beyond mere support and engage in concrete actions to safeguard the rights and well-being of TGNC individuals.