UUA President, Rev. Susan Frederick-Gray, issued the following statement in response to Donald Trump’s directive banning transgender people from entering the military:

I condemn in the strongest terms President Trump’s immoral directive banning transgender people from entering the military and revoking health care support for those currently serving. Unitarian Universalists unequivocally support the full humanity of people across the spectrum of gender and sexuality, including the right of transgender people to serve in the military. This is yet another attack from this administration on the humanity, dignity, and fundamental rights of people in this country. Even more disturbing, this attack targets those who have committed their lives to faithful service.

My heart turns to all the transgender and gender non-conforming people in the military who are showing up everyday to serve and protect our country, even as their commander in chief has made them a target. I am grateful for your service. Grounded in a belief that all people are worthy, and called faithfully to build the Beloved Community, I particularly urge my fellow cisgender Unitarian Universalists to join me in affirming, supporting and celebrating all of our transgender and gender non-conforming siblings. We are with you. We remain with you until we are all free.