Transgender Excellence and the Truth About Military Fitness

By Rev. Paula Josephine Sadler

For too long, transgender people have been treated as a threat to society—labeled as unstable, unfit, and unworthy of basic human rights. This narrative has been perpetuated by systemic discrimination, ignorance, and fear. The irony, of course, is that the true measure of mental instability and unfitness lies not in the existence of transgender individuals, but in the societal structures that refuse to accept them. Let’s set the record straight, once and for all: There is no reputable study that supports the idea that transgender people are inherently unfit, incapable, or unstable. In fact, the overwhelming evidence shows that when transgender individuals are supported, affirmed, and given the same opportunities as others, they thrive—contributing immensely to society in every possible way.

I. The Truth About Mental Health and Transgender People

One of the most insidious myths about transgender people is that being trans is inherently linked to mental instability. But the truth is, being transgender is not a mental illness. In fact, leading health organizations, such as the American Psychological Association and the World Health Organization, have stated clearly that being trans is not a disorder. The distress many transgender individuals experience is due to social rejection, discrimination, and systemic violence, not their identity.

The Trevor Project’s research (2022) has shown that trans youth who are supported by their families have dramatically lower suicide rates. In fact, when transgender people have their identities affirmed, their mental health outcomes improve significantly. The evidence is clear: mental instability is a product of societal rejection, not the identity itself.

II. Transgender People Are Not Unfit for Military Service

Let’s examine one of the most common accusations against transgender people: that they are unfit for military service. The U.S. military has a long history of discriminating against marginalized groups, and transgender people have been no exception. However, multiple reputable studies, including RAND Corporation’s 2016 study, have found that transgender service members have no adverse impact on military readiness. In fact, the study concluded that transgender service members met the same physical and mental fitness standards as their cisgender peers.

Today, transgender people serve in key military and intelligence positions. Colonel Bree Fram is one of the first openly transgender officers to be promoted to colonel in the U.S. military. Alana McLaughlin, a former Army Special Forces sergeant, now competes in MMA, demonstrating immense physical resilience and skill. These are just two examples among many.

The myth of transgender people being unfit for military service is rooted in fear and ignorance, not evidence. Transgender people are fighting for our country and contributing to our national security, proving they are as capable as anyone else.

III. Transgender People’s Contributions to Society

Let’s look beyond the military and examine how transgender individuals contribute to society as a whole. From scientists to artists, activists, and politicians, transgender people are some of the most resilient, innovative, and compassionate individuals in the world.

Dr. Rachel Levine, appointed by President Joe Biden, is the first openly transgender person to hold a four-star position in the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, and serves as Assistant Secretary for Health. Dr. Lynn Conway revolutionized the computer industry by inventing VLSI microchip technology, a foundational advancement that powers nearly every modern device. Wendy Carlos, a Grammy Award-winning composer, redefined the landscape of classical and electronic music with her groundbreaking work in synthesizers. Sarah McBride made history as the first openly transgender person elected to a U.S. state senate (Delaware), proving that transgender people not only serve in government—they lead.

Across industries, transgender individuals are not just surviving—they are thriving. They are educating, innovating, healing, and leading, making irreplaceable contributions to fields as diverse as medicine, art, technology, and human rights.

IV. The Real Cause of Mental Health Struggles: Societal Rejection

It’s crucial to recognize that the true source of mental health struggles for many transgender people is not their gender identity, but the constant rejection, violence, and stigmatization they face. Transgender people are more likely to face homelessness, job discrimination, family rejection, and violence—all of which contribute to higher rates of depression, suicidal ideation, and substance abuse. But when transgender people are given the same rights and protections as others—when they are supported by their families, communities, and governments—their mental health improves significantly.

Studies from UCLA’s Williams Institute and The Trevor Project show that transgender people who experience legal affirmation, family support, and access to gender-affirming healthcare are more likely to experience positive mental health outcomes and lead fulfilling lives.

V. Why the Myth of "Unfitness" Must End

The myth that transgender people are unfit for society has no basis in fact. In reality, transgender individuals, like any other group, face challenges that can be overcome with support, affirmation, and access to resources. The real threat to transgender people is not their identity, but the violence, discrimination, and marginalization they face from institutions, individuals, and governments that refuse to accept them.

Transgender people are not a burden on society. They are vital contributors—in education, the military, the arts, medicine, and beyond. It is time for society to recognize that transgender people belong. They serve, create, and lead. It’s not transgender people who are unfit for society—it is the systems that refuse to embrace them.

Conclusion: Transgender People Are Not a Threat – They Are a Gift

Transgender people, throughout history and today, have shown resilience and brilliance, even in the face of extraordinary hardship. The myths about their unfitness are just that—myths. They are not dangerous, nor are they inherently unstable. Instead, transgender people represent the best of humanity—people who have fought, and continue to fight, for the right to exist as they are.

Let’s move beyond these unfounded stereotypes and embrace the truth: Transgender people are not only fit for society—they are essential to its progress. The future is inclusive, and it’s time to celebrate, rather than suppress, the diverse beauty of humanity.