The Department of Homeland Security has quietly eliminated policies preventing intelligence investigations based solely on sexual orientation or gender identity. As first reported by Bloomberg, DHS updated its policy manual this month, removing LGBTQ identities from the list of characteristics that cannot be the sole basis for surveillance. The manual now bars investigations based only on race, ethnicity, sex, religion, nationality, or disability—excluding sexual orientation and gender identity from these protections.
The change follows Donald Trump’s executive orders eliminating diversity, equity, and inclusion policies in government. He also mandated federal agencies recognize only two sexes, contradicting medical consensus. Trump’s pick for Homeland Security Secretary, Kristi Noem, has a history of targeting queer rights, including banning trans athletes and gender-affirming care for youth.
She also faced backlash after admitting to killing a 14-month-old puppy she called untrainable. The Brennan Center for Justice warns that DHS has a long record of civil liberties violations, including surveillance of journalists and activists. Critics fear the latest policy shift could justify increased monitoring of LGBTQ individuals. For now, DHS has not publicly explained the reason behind the change. Queer News Tonight will follow this new policy and it’s implications on the LGBTQ community closely.
