Donald Trump

Caitlyn Jenner, Ellen DeGeneres, Inauguration Singer Jackie Evancho Criticize Trump Move on Transgender Guidelines

Inauguration Singer Jackie Evancho and Chaz Bono also were among those commenting on the administration's action

Caitlyn Jenner late Thursday joined a chorus of celebrities criticizing President Donald Trump's decision to roll back a federal rule saying public schools had to allow transgender students to use the bathrooms and locker rooms of their chosen gender identity.

The rule had already been blocked from enforcement, but transgender advocates view the Trump administration action as a step back for transgender rights.

On Twitter, Jenner said "from one Republican to another, this is a disaster."

Jenner was particularly critical of Attorney General Jeff Sessions, saying, "Apparently even becoming attorney general isn't enough to cure some people of their insecurities." 

Addressing Trump, the former Olympic champion says: "You made a promise to protect the LGBTQ community. Call me."

More than a month after performing at Trump's inauguration, singer Jackie Evancho said she and her transgender sister want to meet with him about transgender rights.

The 16-year-old "America's Got Talent" star made the request in a tweet Wednesday night. Evancho appeared alongside her sister, Juliet, on ABC's "Good Morning America" on Thursday. Juliet Evancho said they hope to "enlighten" the president.

During the White House's daily press briefing Thursday, Press Secretary Sean Spicer said he thinks Trump would welcome a meeting with Evancho. 

Other celebrities who often speak out about debates related to LGBTQ rights also weighed in on Twitter, some calling the decision an attack on human rights.  

Chaz Bono, an LGBTQ advocate and the transgender son of Sonny Bono and Cher, said the decision will have a "devastating effect" on transgender students. 

Ellen DeGeneres also slammed the decision, writing the Obama-era order was not about politics, but about protecting "human rights" of trans people. 

And actress Ellen Page called on people "to stand up against this cruelty that hurts our kids." 

It was not clear what immediate impact the change would have on schools, as a federal judge in Texas put a temporary hold on the Obama guidance soon after it was issued — after 13 states sued.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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