Story perspectives

U.S. Halts 'X' Gender Passports, Reversing Biden's Progress

1/25/2025

50 11

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. State Department, led by Secretary Marco Rubio, has halted all passport applications for an "X" gender marker, aligning with President Trump's executive order that acknowledges only male and female genders. This shift dismantles the Biden-era progress on non-binary recognition. While current passports with "X" markers stay valid, renewals could encounter hurdles.

History

Historical Context

The U.S. State Department's recent decision to halt "X" gender marker passport applications reflects a broader historical trend of fluctuating LGBTQ+ rights in the U.S. After the 1969 Stonewall riots, advocacy for LGBTQ+ recognition gained momentum, peaking with the 2015 Obergefell v. Hodges ruling that legalized same-sex marriage. However, recent policy shifts signal a regression, echoing earlier periods of discrimination against sexual minorities, particularly during the Lavender Scare of the 1950s.

1 of 2

Story summary

The U.S. State Department, led by Secretary Marco Rubio, has halted all passport applications for an "X" gender marker, aligning with President Trump's executive order that acknowledges only male and female genders. This shift dismantles the Biden-era progress on non-binary recognition. While current passports with "X" markers stay valid, renewals could encounter hurdles.

1 / 2