(MENAFN) On the occasion of the Transgender Day of Visibility, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services made a significant announcement that it will be accepting "self-identified gender markers" from foreign individuals who seek legal immigration services and benefits, without requiring any supporting documents. This move is a significant step towards inclusion and reflects the changing attitudes towards gender identity.
The existing forms still only provide the options of 'male' or 'female', but the Homeland Security's legal immigration branch will now allow applicants to select and change their preferred gender at will, as per a policy update alert issued on March 31. The policy change, which is effective immediately, states that "benefit requestors may self-select their gender marker (in an initial filing or a subsequent change to a prior gender selection), without the need to provide supporting documentation or to match the gender listed on their identity documents." This will make the process much easier and less stressful for transgender individuals who often face difficulties in obtaining the required supporting documents.
President Joe Biden's proclamation of March 31 as the Transgender Day of Visibility in 2021 is part of his wider push for equity and inclusivity. In his 2023 proclamation, President Biden stated that "Transgender Americans shape our Nation's soul," highlighting the importance of recognizing and accepting people of all gender identities.
This policy change is a significant step towards greater inclusivity and acceptance of transgender individuals. It reflects the changing attitudes and recognition of the importance of respecting people's gender identity. The move is expected to have a positive impact on the lives of transgender immigrants, who will now be able to identify themselves as they choose, without the need for any supporting documentation.
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