Women and LGBTQ+ Service Members

Women and LGBTQ+ service members have played vital roles in the U.S. military, contributing to its strength and diversity. Currently, about 79,000 LGBTQ+ individuals serve across all military branches, alongside approximately 1 million LGBTQ+ veterans. Recognizing their experiences and the evolving policies that affect their service is important for understanding military life and veterans’ affairs.

Current Service and Demographics

Among active service members, estimates indicate between 6,000 and 15,500 are transgender, while transgender veterans number around 134,000. Women now make up a larger share of the military than ever before, and LGBTQ+ individuals serve at rates higher than their representation in the general population. Generation Z, the largest group of new recruits, includes a growing number of LGBTQ+ people.

Policies and Legal Status

Policy changes have shaped LGBTQ+ military service over recent decades. The repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” in 2011 allowed gay, lesbian, and bisexual service members to serve openly. Transgender personnel gained this right in 2016, but a ban was reinstated in 2025, limiting transgender service except under narrow waivers. Despite these shifts, 58% of Americans still support openly transgender military service.

Support and Resources

LGBTQ+ service members and veterans have access to vital support systems, including resources for reporting and addressing harassment and sexual assault. For more information on these resources, see Navigating SHARP/SAPR: A Guide to DoD Sexual Assault & Harassment Resources. Efforts also continue to help LGBTQ+ veterans update discharge statuses and access benefits earned through their service.