Veteran Dies by Suicide at Syracuse VA, Draped in Transgender Pride Flag

Wearing a transgender pride flag, a veteran committed suicide at the VA Syracuse Medical Center parking garage on Jan. 27. First published by Syracuse.com, the event has sparked debates on veteran suicide prevention as well as issues confronting LGBTQ+ veterans.

With the flag draped across the veteran's body, witnesses said the scene was startling. Reports state that the patient had been released from the inpatient hospital just a few days ago. Declining to discuss specifics, VA officials said they were in touch with the veteran's family but cited privacy rules and an ongoing inquiry as justification.

Under President Donald Trump's presidency, major policy changes underlie the tragedy: an executive order prohibiting federal agencies from noting gender identity in public records. Such regulations could discourage transgender veterans from seeking VA treatment, warns advocacy groups.

Still, a significant concern is suicide among veterans. The VA's 2024 suicide prevention report indicates that 6,407 veterans died by suicide in 2022; deaths at VA institutions are still happening. Veteran suicide rates continue to be shockingly high even with more money for mental health treatment.

Executive director of Minority Soldiers of America Lindsay Church warned that legislative changes impacting gender identification would discourage LGBTQ+ soldiers from seeking treatment even more. "It will affect whether or not folks ever return to VA," Church said.

Veterans in crisis can text 838255 or contact the Veteran Crisis Line at 998 (press 1) for help.

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