Actress Hunter Schafer recently discovered an unexpected change on her U.S. passport—her sex is now listed as male. She hadn’t requested the update, and it came as a shock. This happened after Donald Trump signed an executive order, rolling back previous rules on gender markers for federal documents.
The decision has sparked a heated debate. Supporters say it ensures consistency in government records, while critics argue it creates unnecessary struggles for transgender individuals.
Why Did This Happen?
Under Biden’s administration, individuals could select “X” as a gender marker or update their passports based on gender identity. That policy is now gone. Trump’s order requires that passports reflect birth records unless legally changed through a court process.
Schafer, known for her role in Euphoria, wasn’t given any notice. She only realized the change when she opened her new passport.
“I looked at my passport and saw something that didn’t match who I am,” Schafer said. “It’s frustrating to have something this personal changed without my say.”
LGBTQ+ advocates argue this policy ignores transgender identities and makes everyday life, including travel, more difficult.
Public Reaction and Legal Fight
The order has already led to legal challenges, with civil rights groups preparing lawsuits. They argue the policy violates personal rights and creates barriers for transgender individuals who had previously updated their documents.
The White House stands firm, saying the order ensures “biological accuracy” and aligns all federal records under a single standard.
Reactions have been divided:
- LGBTQ+ organizations say the order erases recognition for transgender people.
- Legal experts question whether the policy will survive in court.
- Supporters believe it restores traditional definitions of sex in legal documents.
Some states are already looking for ways to protect gender identity recognition on state-issued IDs, even if federal documents say otherwise.
What Happens Now?
For those affected, the only option may be a legal name and gender change through the courts, which can be expensive and time-consuming.
The policy is expected to face multiple lawsuits, and courts may block its enforcement. A future administration could also reverse it again, leaving transgender individuals in yet another cycle of uncertainty.
This issue is far from settled, and the legal battle over this order is just beginning.
