The amendments pushed through by House Republicans included gutting diversity, equity and inclusion programmes at the Department of Defence. It banned flying pro-LGBTQ flags at military bases and ended funding for transgender-related medical services.
In perhaps the most telling reflection of the times, the bill also included a provision that would eliminate a Pentagon policy that offers time off and travel reimbursement to members of the military who must travel across states to receive an abortion.
Not being able to freely express yourself on military bases feels very Don’t Ask Don’t Tell: “you’re allowed to be gay and serve, but you have to stay closeted to do so”.