The executive orders issued today attempt to remove established legal protections for transgender individuals, refugees, asylum seekers, and other immigrants. These orders are both illegal and fundamentally opposed to our democratic values.

The president’s authority does not extend to unilaterally canceling existing nondiscrimination protections for transgender people, many of which have been established for decades. Furthermore, these orders conflict with federal asylum laws and the Constitution’s 14th Amendment guarantee of birthright citizenship.

We recognize the fear and anxiety these orders have created within affected communities. Every individual in our nation deserves equal rights, dignity, and legal protection. Transgender people and immigrants are integral members of communities across America.

NCLR will continue defending civil rights through legal action and to challenge these discriminatory policies. We urge all Americans who value fairness to oppose these orders and support those targeted by them.