Trump Cuts LGBTQ Funding – $125M!
The Trump administration initiated significant policy changes by halting financial support for the Global Equality Fund, raising concerns about the future of international LGBTQ rights initiatives.
At a Glance
- Trump administration ceased the Global Equality Fund, affecting LGBTQ international grants.
- Over $125 million in LGBTQ health funding canceled by the NIH.
- Executive orders restricted diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
- Concerns of LGBTQ research and rights erasure amid political actions.
Administration’s Policy Shift
The Trump administration, aligning with its policy direction, stopped supporting the Global Equality Fund. This fund was crucial in advancing LGBTQ rights, channeling over $100 million to more than 100 countries. The move surfaced during a broader reassessment of foreign aid, signaling a clear departure from prior state-backed inclusion initiatives. The fund’s removal from State Department platforms marked the end of a primary channel for promoting equality globally.
The NIH followed suit, canceling over 270 grants critical to LGBTQ research, amounting to at least $125 million in lost funding. These cancellations were a direct result of executive orders from President Trump. The orders imposed strict limitations, notably disregarding transgender identities and halting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.
Impact on Researchers and Communities
Many researchers face potential unemployment due to reduced academic research funding. Programs at the CDC, crucial for HIV surveillance and STI testing, have also experienced cuts. Prominent researcher Brian Mustanski lost major grants, which affected significant studies on HIV and health outcomes for young gay men.
“This has been a devastating experience”, said Brian Mustanski.
The grant cancellations have forced the dissolution of the NIH’s Sexual and Gender Minority Research Office, further complicating future research. As a result, fears of erasing LGBTQ populations from national research priorities have grown, reflecting apprehensions about losing a generation of academic understanding and field integrity.
Stonewall and Global Reaction
Stonewall, a leading LGBTQ charity, faces considerable financial challenges linked to the U.S. administration’s aid freeze. The charity might need to reduce its workforce significantly. Stonewall started an “organisation-wide consultation” to address the rollback of rights for marginalized communities worldwide.
“hard-won rights are being rolled back for marginalised communities across the world” – Stonewall.
The halted Global Equality Fund, previously Stonewall’s largest financial backer, contributed over £500,000 between 2021 and 2025. Stonewall emphasizes that advocating for LGBTQ equality is more vital than ever amid such political setbacks. They aim to rise to meet ongoing challenges.
