A transgender inmate has filed a lawsuit challenging an executive order issued by President Donald Trump. The order, signed in January 2025, states that inmates in federal prisons will be housed based on their biological sex assigned at birth rather than their gender identity. It also prohibits gender transition-related medical treatments for incarcerated individuals.
The inmate, who was transferred to a men’s prison under the new policy, argues that the decision violates her constitutional rights and puts her in grave danger. She claims that being housed with male inmates has increased her risk of assault and harassment. Additionally, being denied gender-affirming healthcare has caused her mental and physical health to deteriorate.
Trump’s response
President Trump has not directly addressed the lawsuit, but has defended his executive order in public statements. He argues that the policy prioritizes “safety and fairness” in federal prisons. According to Trump, allowing transgender inmates to choose their own housing or receive gender-affirming care would create “security risks” and place an undue burden on the prison system.
In a recent speech, Trump said, “We need to bring common sense back to the way we run our prisons. Biological sex is a clear, factual standard, and this policy reflects that reality.” His administration has also dismissed criticism of the policy, calling it a necessary step to protect the integrity of the prison system.
Criticism of the policy
LGBTQ+ advocacy groups and human rights organizations have strongly condemned the executive order. They argue that it endangers transgender inmates by increasing their risk of violence and depriving them of necessary medical care. These groups also claim that the policy violates federal laws protecting against discrimination.
Legal experts say the lawsuit could become a landmark case for transgender rights in the U.S. prison system. They expect the case to focus on whether the policy violates the Eighth Amendment’s prohibition against cruel and unusual punishment or other federal protections.
What’s next?
The lawsuit highlights the ongoing tension between the Trump administration’s policies and the rights of transgender individuals. As the case progresses through the courts, it could set an important precedent for how prisons meet the needs of transgender inmates.
The legal battle also underscores the broader debate over LGBTQ+ rights in the U.S., a topic that is likely to remain a central issue as Trump’s administration continues to implement its policies.
