Trans Veteran’s Family Needs Your Support After military Ban

Dear friends, family, and kind strangers, I am ashamed and sickened that I am having to do this. I never wanted to ask for help, I never wanted it to be like this. I don’t see another way right now. EVERYONE is struggling, we are not unique or special, and yet here I am pleading for help.

 Our family is facing an unimaginable crisis, one we never thought we’d have to endure after 17 years of honorable military service. My partner, Lindell, is a transgender service member who has dedicated their adult life to this country, sacrificing birthdays, holidays, and milestones to serve our country. But now, because of who they are, our family’s stability is being ripped away. 

 Lindell did nothing wrong, when they began transitioning, the military had a system in place and Lindell followed the guidance step by step, making sure every box was checked, and every ‘T’ was crossed. Lindell’s first concern was always “Will my service be jeopardized?” Then as quick as the USAF gave the "green light" it was ripped away. The administration wants to see Lindell is treated like a criminal, or like they have done something wrong. But Lindell didn't do anything illegal, unjust, or against the rules. They just wanted to feel like a person, to live and serve in the body they felt comfortable in.

 Lindell’s transition did not affect how they did their job, they did not demand people change the way they spoke or acted, they asked for the same decency and respect they always warranted and everyone deserves. Lindell still went to work on time every day and performed their job to the best of their ability, and yet, it isn’t enough. 

 On the 6th of May the Supreme Court paused injunctions blocking the enforcement of the transgender military ban, effectively allowing Lindell to be discharged at the whim of the administration. Despite 17 years of honorable service, and still meeting all standards, our government has decided that Lindell’s identity- not their competence, capability, or commitment- disqualifies them. Overnight, we’re staring down the loss of our livelihood, healthcare, and home. 

 We’re in a desperate race against time. We’ve been preparing to move back to the States, as this overseas assignment is reaching its end. With Lindell’s career suddenly in jeopardy, we now face unemployment, homelessness, and an uncertain future for our children. The military was a safety net, it provided structure, community, and purpose. Now, we’re scrambling in preparation to build a new life from scratch. 

 We’re embarrassed to ask for help. Lindell has spent their entire adult life giving to this country, not taking. But right now, we have no choice. We’re humbly reaching out for support as we:

 -Cover immediate moving and housing costs to avoid homelessness.

 -Replace lost income while Lindell seeks new employment.

 -Secure healthcare for our family, while we wait for the VA to process. 

 -Provide stability for our kids amid this upheaval. 

 This isn’t just about us. Thousands of transgender service members and families are being discarded by the same policy. We’re fighting in court, in the media, and in our hearts for a future where no one is punished for their identity. But today, we’re just a family trying to survive. 

 If you can contribute anything, we’re deeply grateful. If you can’t, please share this fundraiser or reach out to your friends, families please. This ban is cruel and unsupported by fact. 

 From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you for seeing our humanity when our government refuses to. 

 —Stacey, Lindell, Lucas, Dorian, Graham