MTV seeks to host transgender service members at VMAs

Photo provided.

Kara Kliewer
Staff Writer

As a response to President Trump’s decision to ban transgender individuals from the military, one entertainment company is speaking out and standing up.

Pentagon Spokesman Lt. Col. Paul Haverstick, according to CNN, “told CNN Wednesday that ‘MTV has requested service member participation for this year’s VMA’s.’”

In addition, he said, “At this time the Department of Defense is reviewing the parameters of the request.”

The review is necessary as service members must abide by certain restrictions and parameters due to their work and the nature of the VMAs (it’s a public and politicized event).

Nevertheless, MTV anticipates the potential participation of transgender service members.

“MTV has invited transgender members of the US armed forces to the 2017 Video Music Awards and we would be honored if they could attend,” said Christopher McCarthy, president of MTV. “Any patriot who is putting their own life at risk to fight for our freedom and stands for equality is a hero at MTV, and to young people everywhere.”

The decision to ban transgender individuals from military service was announced nearly a month ago by President Trump via Twitter.

The details of how this ban is to be enacted have yet to be revealed; however, according to the Wall Street Journal, guidance will arrive “in the coming days.”

To review further details of current military communication on the issue, reference The Gayly’s previous story.

Copyright The Gayly – 8/24/2017 3:34 p.m. CST