The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has withdrawn a $600,000 grant from Southern University Agricultural & Mechanical College intended for research on feminine hygiene. The grant included a component focused on “transgender men,” a decision that conflicted with the priorities of the Trump administration. This action came to light after the American Principles Project compiled a database revealing the study’s details.

Southern University Agricultural & Mechanical College defended its research, clarifying that the primary objective was to explore sustainable feminine hygiene products for all biological women. The university downplayed the emphasis on transgender men or women identifying as men. However, a USDA spokesperson highlighted that the educational aspect of the study prioritized individuals assigned female at birth who identify as men and may experience menstruation.

Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins expressed her support for canceling the grant, emphasizing the administration’s stance that there are only two sexes, male and female. The database, titled “Funding Insanity: Federal Spending on Gender Ideology under Biden-Harris,” specified that the study aimed to examine menstrual cycles in “transgender men and people with masculine gender identities, intersex, and non-binary persons.”

The university’s Research and Extension Center refuted claims that the study disproportionately focused on transgender men, asserting that the term was mentioned only once to illustrate the project’s potential benefits for all biological women. The center intended to utilize the grant to investigate alternative natural fibers such as regenerative cotton, wool, and industrial hemp in developing sustainable feminine hygiene products.

Despite efforts to reach out to the university and the American Principles Project for further comments, responses were not provided. This incident underscores the challenges faced in conducting research on female hygiene, particularly when addressing diverse gender identities within the study scope. The cancellation of the grant sheds light on the complexities surrounding gender-inclusive research initiatives and the impact of shifting political priorities on scientific endeavors.