Major Alivia Stehlik, a transgender Army Ranger and holistic health director, shares her unique perspective on serving in the military while navigating her gender identity. Kate Sosin, an insightful LGBTQ+ reporter, discusses the troubling implications of Trump-era policies on the transgender community. They emphasize personal stories of resilience amid restrictive regulations, the evolving visibility of trans rights, and the urgent need for advocacy. Their conversation reveals the stark reality of how political decisions affect those who serve and the fight for equality.
Major Alivia Stehlik illustrates the resilience of trans service members facing restrictive policies, balancing personal identity with military expectations.
Kate Sosin highlights the rapid regression of transgender rights, emphasizing the pressing need for societal understanding amidst systemic discrimination.
Deep dives
Olivia Stelick's Journey in the Military
Olivia Stelick serves as a physical therapist in the 101st Airborne Division and has had a distinguished military career, previously being part of the Old Guard ceremonial unit. She highlights the extreme discipline and perfection required in the military, particularly emphasizing the meticulousness in maintaining uniforms. Transitioning from an officer to a trans individual in the military has not been without its challenges, yet Olivia found ways to thrive, initially coming out when policies shifted under the Obama administration. Her experiences illustrate not only her dedication to her role but also the complexities faced by transgender individuals in uniformed services.
The Impact of Policy Changes on Trans Troops
The podcast addresses the shifting political landscape regarding transgender individuals in the military, particularly under Donald Trump's administration, which introduced more restrictive orders against trans service members. Olivia highlighted the anxiety surrounding these changes and the reality of serving under such circumstances, including a previous ban that left many in limbo. Despite these challenges, Olivia and others have continued their service, focusing on their duties and responsibilities while navigating the implications of these policies. The ongoing conversation sheds light on the tension between personal identity and military expectations, illustrating the struggle for acceptance within a historically conservative institution.
Community and Visibility Amidst Backlash
The episode discusses the broader context of societal acceptance for transgender individuals, lamenting the political backlash following earlier advancements in LGBTQ+ rights. Kate Sosen, a reporter, emphasizes the rapid regression in policies regarding transgender rights and healthcare, reflecting the broader societal misconceptions about transgender lives. The visibility of trans individuals has increased in recent years, yet the risk of systemic discrimination remains high, impacting access to essential healthcare and civil rights. The conversation reveals a need for collective understanding and support to combat this narrative, highlighting the essential human aspect being overshadowed by politics.
Trump and his allies in the House’s flurry of anti-trans legislation and executive orders will soon run into both the law and the reality that our institutions like the military really rely on trans people.
Guests:
Major Alivia Stehlik, Director of Holistic Health and Fitness for the 101st Airborne Division.
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Podcast production by Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme and Rob Gunther.