The Trump Administration is Threatening Trans Representation in Theatre
People attend a rally as part of a Transgender Day of Visibility on March 31, 2023, by the U.S. Capitol in Washington. Jacquelyn Martin/AP
by Chris Peterson, OnStage Blog Founder
The Trump administration's recent actions have raised significant concerns within the theatre community, particularly regarding the rights and representation of transgender individuals.
In January 2025, President Donald Trump signed Executive Order 14168, which restricts federal recognition to only two genders—male and female as assigned at birth. This order effectively excludes non-binary and transgender identities from federal acknowledgment, impacting various sectors, including the arts. The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), in compliance with this order, announced that all 2026 projects must ensure they do not promote "gender ideology," thereby limiting funding for programs that support diversity and gender expression.
Over 400 artists have signed a letter urging the NEA to resist these restrictions, arguing that such regulations betray the organization's mission to benefit all through the arts. And yesterday, news broke that the ACLU has filed a lawsuit claiming that these restrictions violate the Fourth and Fifth Amendments to the Constitution.
The Trump administration's recent policies have undeniably posed significant threats to transgender representation and participation in theatre.
Theatre plays a pivotal role in representing marginalized voices. Policies that suppress gender-diverse content further alienate LGBTQ+ individuals, depriving them of essential representation and validation in mainstream culture. For example, the cancelation of events like "Draggieland" at Texas A&M University, exemplifies the tangible impact on LGBTQ+ visibility and inclusion.
My hope is that the collective response from the arts community highlights a steadfast commitment to diversity and inclusion. Through continued advocacy and creative resilience, artists and institutions are striving to ensure that theatre remains a space where all voices can be expressed and celebrated.
Theatre has always been a space for storytelling, self-expression, and societal reflection. However, for too long, transgender voices and stories have been marginalized or erased from the stage. Trans representation in theatre is not just a matter of visibility—it is about authenticity, opportunity, and the power of narrative to foster understanding and empathy.
Trump’s focus on marginalizing transgender individuals distracts from more pressing national concerns, such as economic instability, healthcare accessibility, and national security threats. By fixating on divisive social issues, the administration risks neglecting the broader needs of the nation.
It is imperative for the Trump administration to cease its discriminatory actions against transgender people. Upholding the rights and dignity of all citizens not only aligns with our nation's core values but also strengthens our society by promoting inclusivity and unity.