Euphoria Star Hunter Schafer Shares Passport Gender Marker Struggle
Hunter Schafer, a transgender woman and star of HBO’s popular series Euphoria, recently revealed that her new U.S. passport incorrectly lists her as male, despite her selecting female on the application. This incident has sparked conversations about gender identity policies in the U.S.
The Shock of the Incorrect Gender Marker
In a TikTok video, Schafer expressed her surprise upon seeing the “M” gender marker on her new passport. Her previous passport had correctly identified her as female.
- Schafer’s Reaction: “I was shocked. I never truly believed it would happen.”
- Criticism of Policies: She linked the issue to former President Donald Trump’s policies on gender, which restrict passport gender markers to male or female based on birth records.
Trump’s Executive Order on Gender Markers
On his first day in office, Trump signed an executive order recognizing only two genders—male and female—and stated that these cannot be changed.
- Key Points of the Order:
- Only male (M) or female (F) markers are allowed on U.S. passports.
- Gender markers must align with the gender recorded at birth.
- The order explicitly separates “gender identity.”
This policy contrasts with the Biden administration’s 2022 announcement to offer an “X” gender marker option for non-binary, and gender non-conforming individuals.
Schafer’s Passport Application Experience
Schafer applied for a new passport after losing her previous one while filming abroad.
- Application Process: She filled out forms indicating her gender as female.
- Unexpected Outcome: Upon receiving the replacement, she discovered the gender marker was listed as male.
Anticipated Travel Challenges
Schafer expressed concerns about potential difficulties during her upcoming international travel due to the incorrect gender marker.
- Airport Concerns: She anticipates having to explain her gender identity to border patrol agents.
- Broader Implications: Schafer emphasized that this issue affects everyone, regardless of their background or privilege.
Schafer’s Advocacy for Transgender Rights
Schafer has been vocal about her experiences as a transgender woman, using her platform to highlight systemic issues.
- Previous Changes: She updated her driver’s license and passport gender markers as a teenager but never amended her birth certificate.
- Message to Fans: “It’s important to share that this is real and happening. No one is excluded from these challenges.”
The Impact of Gender Marker Policies
The U.S. State Department’s current policy requires gender markers to match biological gender at birth, creating hurdles for transgender individuals.
- Biden’s Proposed Changes: The introduction of an “X” marker aims to be more inclusive.
- Ongoing Challenges: Despite progress, many transgender people still face bureaucratic and social obstacles.
Key Takeaways
- Hunter Schafer’s passport issue highlights the challenges transgender individuals face with gender markers.
- Trump’s executive order restricts gender markers to male or female based on birth records.
- The Biden administration’s proposed “X” marker offers hope for greater inclusivity.
- Schafer’s experience underscores the need for continued advocacy and policy reform.
References:
- U.S. State Department Passport Policies
- Biden Administration’s 2022 Announcement on Gender Markers
- Hunter Schafer’s TikTok Video
- BBC
