President Joe Biden has made LGBTQ+ rights a central theme of his career, especially during his presidency. His administration has actively sought to restore and expand protections that were eroded or outright dismantled in previous years. With a history of vocal support, Biden’s advocacy offers a stark contrast to policies that marginalize LGBTQ+ communities. How has Biden’s presidency made a difference for LGBTQ+ rights?
1. Reversing the Transgender Military Ban
Biden wasted no time in overturning the ban on transgender individuals serving in the military, reinstating their right to serve openly and receive medical care.
2. Recognizing Pride Month
From his first year in office, Biden has consistently recognized Pride Month, affirming his administration’s support and commitment to the LGBTQ+ community.
3. Supporting the Equality Act
Biden has been a vocal advocate for the Equality Act, which would provide comprehensive protections against discrimination for LGBTQ+ people across the nation.
4. Executive Order on Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation
On his first day in office, Biden signed an executive order preventing discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation, reinforcing the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Bostock v. Clayton County.
5. Appointing LGBTQ+ Officials
Biden has appointed numerous LGBTQ+ individuals to high-ranking government positions, including Pete Buttigieg as the first openly gay U.S. Cabinet secretary.
6. International LGBTQ+ Rights
The Biden administration has placed a strong emphasis on supporting LGBTQ+ rights globally, using America’s foreign policy to fight discrimination worldwide.
7. Expanding Asylum Access
Under Biden, the rules and interpretations around asylum have been clarified to ensure that LGBTQ+ individuals who are persecuted in their home countries can seek refuge in the U.S.
8. Combating Anti-LGBTQ+ Legislation
The administration has spoken out against and taken action to oppose numerous state-level bills that target transgender youth, including those that ban transgender girls from participating in sports.
9. HIV/AIDS Strategy
Biden updated and relaunched efforts under the U.S. HIV/AIDS strategy, focusing on reducing infections and improving health outcomes within marginalized communities, including LGBTQ+ people.
10. Protecting LGBTQ+ Rights in Healthcare
The Department of Health and Human Services has moved to prohibit discrimination in healthcare based on sexual orientation and gender identity under the Affordable Care Act.
11. Promoting LGBTQ+ Rights in Education
The Department of Education under Biden has been active in defending the rights of LGBTQ+ students, ensuring their protection from discrimination and harassment.
12. Addressing LGBTQ+ Homelessness
Biden’s administration has targeted support programs aimed at reducing homelessness, with particular attention to LGBTQ+ youth who are disproportionately affected.
13. Supporting Senior LGBTQ+ Individuals
Initiatives have been launched to address the specific needs of elderly LGBTQ+ individuals, ensuring they receive appropriate and respectful care and support.
14. Ensuring Safe Prisons for Transgender Individuals
The Department of Justice has been tasked with enforcing stricter guidelines to protect transgender individuals in federal prisons.
15. Restoring Transgender Health Protections
The Biden administration reversed a Trump-era policy that allowed health care providers to deny care to transgender individuals based on religious or moral objections.
16. Pride Flag at U.S. Embassies
Biden has allowed and encouraged U.S. embassies around the world to fly the Pride flag, signaling a clear support for LGBTQ+ rights globally.
17. Recognizing Transgender Day of Visibility
Biden officially recognized Transgender Day of Visibility, offering federal affirmation of the struggles and accomplishments of transgender individuals.
18. Supporting Parental Rights
His administration has supported the rights of LGBTQ+ parents, fighting discriminatory practices that affect adoption and parenting.
19. Addressing Anti-LGBTQ+ Violence
Biden has actively addressed and condemned violence against LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly the epidemic of violence faced by transgender women of color.
20. Celebrating LGBTQ+ Cultural Contributions
The administration has promoted and celebrated the cultural and historical contributions of the LGBTQ+ community, enhancing visibility and appreciation.
21. Advocating for LGBTQ+ Youth
Biden has consistently advocated for policies and programs that support LGBTQ+ youth, including anti-bullying initiatives and mental health resources.
Steady Progress
Joe Biden’s tenure as president has marked significant strides in the fight for equality and justice for the LGBTQ+ community. His commitment reflects a crucial recognition of rights and dignity for all, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
The post 21 Times Biden Stood Up for LGBTQ+ Rights first appeared on Pulse of Pride.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Chris Allan.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
