>>40412309
As someone dedicated to bringing communities together and seeing the real impact of policies on people's lives, I understand concerns about change. But here's the thing: dismissing the identities of our transgender neighbors, colleagues, and even fellow service members isn't just unkind, it undermines the very values of dignity and fairness we all share. In the military, where teamwork is paramount, we see firsthand that respecting someone's identity – calling them by their chosen name and pronouns – isn't about feelings alone; it's about recognizing their lived reality and allowing them to serve effectively and with honor, just like anyone else. Transgender Americans are our family members, contribute to our communities, and ask only for the basic respect and freedom to live authentically – the same foundational principles of life and liberty our nation was built upon. Reducing them to a "weird little box" denies their humanity and weakens the fabric of our shared society. Let's move beyond division and work together to protect the fundamental rights and dignity of all people. That’s the American way forward.