After a year of a continuously requesting gender reassignment treatment, Chelsea Manning, convicted national security leaker formerly known as Private Bradley Edward Manning, said she's got nothing but \"silence\" and then \"lip service\" from the military. <\/p>\n
Manning, 26, was diagnosed four times with gender dysphoria and doctors have recommended \"immediate medical treatment,\" for her, according to a statement by Manning's lawyer, David E. Coombs. <\/p>\n
But in a recent public release statement, Manning said she's been forced to live uncomfortably in her own skin, despite her constitutional right to be provided medical treatment for gender dysphoria. <\/p>\n
\"For example, in my daily life I am reminded of this when I look at the name on my badge, the first initial sewed onto my clothing, the hair and grooming standards that I adhere to, and the titles and courtesies used by the staff,\" read a statement by Manning sent to NBC News. <\/p>\n
Manning's lawyer has stated that they are willing to sue if the military doesn't cooperate soon. <\/p>\n
\"The military failure to comply with the treatment recommendations and protocols for Chelsea's diagnosed gender dysphoria violates her well-established constitutional right to be free from cruel and unusual punishment, read a statement by Coombs. <\/p>\n
The military issued a statement but was unable to give any specifics on Mannings case. <\/p>\n
\"The Department of Defense has approved a request by Army leadership to provide required medical treatment for an inmate diagnosed with gender dysphoria. I can't discuss the medical needs of an individual,\" Army spokeswoman Lt. Col. Alayne Conway said to NBC. In general terms, the initial stages of treatment for individuals with gender dysphoria include psychotherapy and elements of the 'real life experience' therapy. treatment for the condition is highly individualized and generally is sequential and graduated.\" <\/p>\n
Manning is serving a 35-year-sentence in prison after releasing classified national security information to the public through the website WikiLeaks. Since her arrest, she has not requested to be moved to a civilian or female security facility. <\/p>\n
\"Prison is prison regardless of whether you are military or civilian, and regardless of what gender you are,\" wrote Manning. <\/p>\n
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