Trump's DOJ Targets Trans Community: Proposed Ban on Gun Ownership Sparks Outrage

Trump's DOJ Considers Stripping Trans People of Right to Self-Defense In the wake of a mass shooting at an Annunciation Catholic Church in Washington D.C., the Department of Justice is reportedly exploring options to ban transgender individuals from owning guns, sparking widespread outrage and concern among LGBTQ+ advocates. According to sources within the department, senior officials have been holding meetings to determine how to strip constitutional rights from trans people, citing the shooter's identity as a justification for this move. The effort has been met with criticism from human rights groups, who argue that it is an attempt to further vilify and marginalize an already vulnerable community. "This is a cynical and transparent attempt to use one incident of mass violence as a pretext to strip trans people of their constitutional rights," said Sarah Kate Ellis, CEO of GLAAD. "It's a classic example of scapegoating and demonization, and it's unacceptable." The Annunciation Catholic Church shooting occurred on August 25, 2025, when a gunman opened fire on the congregation, killing several people. The shooter's diary entries revealed a troubled individual immersed in extremist online culture, but also identified as trans. "This is not about gun control or public safety," said Ellis. "It's about using one incident to further marginalize and oppress an already marginalized community. We will not stand for it." The Department of Justice has declined to comment on the matter, citing ongoing investigations. Background and context: For decades, LGBTQ+ individuals have faced significant barriers to accessing healthcare, employment, and other basic rights. Trans people, in particular, have been disproportionately affected by violence and harassment, with many experiencing homelessness, poverty, and mental health issues as a result of systemic marginalization. The proposed ban on trans people owning guns would be the latest in a long line of attempts to restrict their rights and freedoms. In 2020, the Trump administration rolled back protections for trans students in public schools, allowing them to be denied access to restrooms and other facilities that align with their gender identity. Additional perspectives: Dr. Marsha Botzer, co-founder of the National LGBTQ+ Task Force, expressed concern about the potential impact on trans people's mental health and well-being. "This is a recipe for disaster," she said. "Trans people are already at high risk for depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. Taking away their right to self-defense would only exacerbate these issues." Current status and next developments: The Department of Justice has not announced any concrete plans or timelines for implementing the proposed ban on trans people owning guns. However, LGBTQ+ advocates are urging Congress to take action to protect trans individuals' rights and freedoms. "We will continue to fight against this attempt to strip trans people of their constitutional rights," said Ellis. "We demand that our elected officials stand with us in defense of human dignity and equality." *Reporting by Theintercept.*