Important Victory for Trans* Veterans

This is very good news:

Two New Jersey-based transgender veterans represented by the ACLU of New Jersey, [Jennifer, a Sergeant Major who served in the U.S. Army for 29 years, and Nicolas, a New Jersey National Guardsman who served for nine], have won a victory in a battle to change their names on a key military identification document, with implications for transgender veterans throughout the country. The Army Board for Correction of Military Records sent letters on Nov. 12, which the ACLU-NJ received on Nov. 24, with its decision to change the names of the two veterans on their "DD-214 Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty" forms, principal documents for any action requiring proof of veteran's status.

..."To get this news the week of Thanksgiving feels fitting," said Jennifer. "This is about much more than a change on a piece of paper. This is about the relief of knowing that when I apply for a job, or a home loan, or anything where my veteran status is relevant, I can do it as myself."

..."This small change in a personnel document means a huge change for veterans like me," said Nicolas. "I served to protect American principles, and the principles of justice and equality have been served by this decision."

The DD-214 form determines veterans' eligibility for benefits and legal protections tied to military service. Veterans need this document to engage in a wide range of activities in public life, including securing a home loan, taking the bar exam, or applying for a job with an employer that gives veterans preference in hiring. Transgender veterans not only risk the denial of these many benefits because of inconsistencies on the DD-214, but also face invasive questions every time this document is presented.

..."With this decision, the U.S. Army has recognized the importance of reflecting service members' true identities accurately, and we're grateful that the deputy assistant secretary chose to reexamine the approach the Army Review Boards had taken for too long," said ACLU-NJ Deputy Legal Director Jeanne LoCicero. "We hope this action signals a new direction for the Army, if not all branches of the military, and indicates a new sensitivity to the barriers faced by transgender veterans."

Congratulations to Jennifer and Nicolas, and to everyone for whom this decision will make life easier and more just.