VA memo orders end to DEI, gender-identity programs

June 17, 2026

1–2 minutes

Summary

A new VA memo ordered an end to DEI and gender-identity initiatives, raising questions about LGBTQ+ veteran programs.

Why this matters

The memo set immediate requirements for Veterans Health Administration facilities and could affect how some services and support programs for LGBTQ+ veterans are delivered. Veterans, employees, and advocates may look to upcoming implementation decisions to assess the practical impact.

A June 12 memorandum from the Department of Veterans Affairs called for changes to care for LGBTQ+ veterans, including ending diversity, equity, and inclusion programs and disbanding what it described as gender-identity and gender-ideology initiatives.

John Bartrum, the Veterans Health Administration under secretary for health, signed the memo. Titled “Reiterating Executive Order Compliance Responsibilities,” it directed officials to ensure government resources are not used for “any form of prioritization that diverts from merit-based, mission-focused operations.”

The memo was sent to Veterans Health Administration senior leaders, Veterans Integrated Service Network directors, and medical directors.

The guidance cited two of President Donald Trump’s executive orders: 14151, “Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and Preferencing,” and 14168, “Defending Women From Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government.” The first order directed federal agencies to end spending on DEI-related programs and policies. The second said the federal government would recognize only two sexes, male and female.

“To ensure maximum adherence to EOs 14151 and 14168, VHA must eliminate all DEI/DEIA programs, gender-identity based and gender-ideology based initiatives, and any activities, internal or external, that promote gender identity or gender ideology. All employees must align operations and communications appropriately,” the memo said.

Effective immediately, the memo said Veterans Health Administration funds, time, facilities, and resources could not be used for meetings, training, working groups, promotional efforts, or events that promote gender identity or ideology. It also said local policies, SharePoint sites, websites, communications, and training materials must comply.

The memo redesignated LGBTQ+ veteran care coordinators as coordinators “dedicated to facilitating VA health care and benefits for all veterans, regardless of race, color, creed, religion, sex or education.” Updated role descriptions were due within 30 days.

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