Statement from State Senator Gustavo Rivera on Current Administration's Ban of Transgender Americans From Serving in the U.S. Armed Forces

"It is appalling, but not surprising, that this administration continues its attempt to destroy President Obama's legacy. This time around, this administration took the dreadful decision to ban transgender individuals from serving in any capacity within the U.S. military. 

Transgender Americans on active duty and in the reserves are neither a disruption nor a burden. These American patriots have served and continue to serve our nation with the dignity and the courage that only a few can claim to possess. 

This discriminatory directive will undoubtedly set us back as a country in our ongoing pursuit to make every American equal under the law. I want to reiterate my unconditional support to the transgender community in New York State and across the country as they face another vile assault to their rights. As a member of the New York Legislature, I will continue working diligently to provide them and our brother and sisters in the LGBTQIA community the support they need and deserve."