If that headline shocked you, it should have. The executive orders that Trump has been signing may very well affect your health. Oh, you thought Trump was only attacking the “T” in our community? Nope. He’s targeting the “L,” the “G,” and the “B” as well. Let me give you some critical facts that explain why you should be alarmed — very alarmed.
Point one: There are health disparities in the LGBTQ+ community. Some diseases disproportionately affect certain populations — sickle cell anemia primarily impacts Black individuals, and Tay-Sachs is more prevalent among Jewish communities. Similarly, there are health concerns that disproportionately affect LGBTQ+ people. Are you surprised? While you may be aware of HIV and AIDS as health issues in our community, there are other needs that are less discussed. For instance, certain cancers occur more frequently in LGBTQ+ individuals than in heterosexual populations.
Now, here’s the kicker: one of Trump’s executive orders will halt studies investigating why this happens. In some cases, it will also hinder treatments and restrict access to information that could be vital to you if you’re affected. This is more than a health issue — it’s an attack on our ability to protect ourselves.
Point two: Let’s talk about PrEP. The United States is involved in a program that helps provide PrEP to approximately 26 million individuals in Africa. Our government has been underwriting the costs to pharmaceutical companies. Well, thanks to Trump, that program just ended. Do you think pharmaceutical companies will absorb the loss? Highly unlikely.
Here’s what that means for us: if you’re on a government-assisted program to access PrEP, especially through an LGBTQ+ clinic, you could lose access. For those with insurance, brace yourself for significantly higher co-pays. The pharmaceutical industry isn’t known for prioritizing affordability over profits.
Point three: Funding for LGBTQ+ health clinics is at risk. You might think living in a blue state protects you, but think again. States often rely on federal block grant funds to support these clinics. Without those funds, many clinics — especially those providing HIV/AIDS services — will be forced to shut down or reduce services. The ripple effects could be devastating.
Point four: Conversion therapy bans and book bans. Another executive order has halted government efforts to fight conversion therapy, and yet another has stopped federal agencies from opposing book bans. These policies actively harm our community by erasing protections and silencing vital education.
Point five: The end of federal DEI programs. Think diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives don’t affect you? Many of these programs fund schools and nonprofits, often training future leaders in advocacy and health care. Under Trump’s orders, funding for programs deemed “politically disagreeable” can be cut, forcing schools to drop related courses and initiatives. The long-term impact on our community could be severe.
Point six: International consequences. Remember Uganda’s “kill the gays” law? The Biden administration successfully pressured Uganda to back down by threatening to withhold foreign aid. Now that Trump has removed that leverage, what do you think will happen next?
To my fellow journalists: I understand that it’s sensational to focus on what Trump is doing to the transgender community, but it’s irresponsible not to inform the entire LGBTQ+ community about these broader attacks. We must prepare ourselves and our readers for what lies ahead.