In a defining moment of his second inaugural address on January 20, 2025, President Donald J. Trump announced a controversial new policy that recognizes only two genders—male and female—as the official stance of the United States.

Standing before an audience of political leaders and supporters, President Trump declared, “As of today, it shall be the official policy of the United States that there are only two genders: male and female.”

This statement reflects his administration’s pledge to prioritise traditional values and counter what he has often referred to as “woke ideologies.”

The policy is expected to influence federal legislation, public institutions, and various aspects of American life, including education, healthcare, and workplace policies.

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President Trump positioned this move as a step towards restoring “common sense” and simplifying social governance, arguing that the nation has been overwhelmed by divisive cultural debates.

The announcement has sparked significant debate, with supporters praising the policy as a bold return to traditional values. At the same time, critics, including LGBTQ+ advocacy groups and civil rights organisations, have condemned the move, labelling it discriminatory and a step back for inclusion and diversity.

This declaration is part of a broader agenda by the Trump administration to counter progressive social policies introduced in recent years.

Trump’s speech also included commitments to a color-blind, merit-based society and reforms aimed at “protecting the integrity of American values.”