Celebrities including Sia, Michael Stipe and Bob the Drag Queen have appeared in a PSA produced by Billboard in response to US President Donald Trump’s on transgender people serving in the armed forces.
In the moving video, LGBT+ musicians and allies such as Shamir, CupcakKe and The Chainsmokers condemn the ban and reinforce their support for the transgender community.
“Transgender rights are human rights,” the stars say in the clip.
“This is a fact. By banning transgender people from openly serving in any capacity within the United States armed forces, President Donald Trump undercut the brave efforts of an estimated 15,000 patriotic transgender Americans who are currently serving our country.”
“Transgender people have served honourably for decades and the current policy works fine. The cost of care to transgender troops is negligible, but their duty and service is priceless."
The clip also features GLAAD President and CEO Sarah Kate Ellis as well as Juliet and Jackie Evancho. Jackie famously performed at President Trump’s inauguration and her sister Juliet is a transgender activist.
“Transgender people fill critical military roles and removing them from their units will disrupt core military missions,” the video continues.
“To our friends in the transgender community, we support you, we love you, we stand by you.”
You can watch the full video below:
