The US State Department announced that it has issued the first passport with an “X” for gender. The State Department’s special envoy for LGBTQ rights said the move was in line with “living reality”.
The US State Department announced on October 28 that it had issued its first passports to those with X-gender identities. This passport is for those who do not mention themselves as male or female. The State Department hopes to be able to offer options on passports and birth certificates to US citizens born abroad more widely next year.
In June, the State Department announced that it was working on adding a third gender option for non-binary, intersex and gender-nonconforming individuals, but said it would take time because existing computer systems had extensive technicalities. Upgradation is needed.
The State Department expects the option to become widely available early next year. The State Department also announced that it will no longer require medical certification for those choosing a gender option that is different from other existing documents such as a driving license or birth certificate.
The State Department’s special envoy for LGBTQ rights Jessica Stern described the move as “historic and festive and in line with the “living reality” of the people. “When a person acquires an identity document that reflects their true identity, they live with greater honor and dignity,” he told AP news agency.
President Joe Biden promised to make LGBTQ rights a key priority of his administration. did. The move is a policy change from Mike Pompeo, the predecessor of Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Who forbade the American embassies to fly the rainbow flag. ”
I would like to take the occasion of the issuance of this passport to reiterate the nation’s commitment to promoting the freedom, dignity and equality of all people, including LGBTQI+ individuals,” State Department spokesman Ned Price told AA/CK (AFP, AP) )
