“The ability to change that mark, to change that F to an X as a way of eschewing the binary systems of male and female, and man and woman, is an essential step towards the breaking down of binary ideological systems, created in order to justify and uphold social, political and economic oppression.”
(Heather Clark – Christian News) A law that was passed last year that allows New York City residents to obtain amended birth certificates, including with an “X” for their gender, has officially gone into effect.
According to reports, the legislation had been proposed in June, or “Pride Month,” being announced by Mayor Bill de Blasio and City Council Speaker Corey Johnson.
“This proposal will allow transgender and gender non-conforming New Yorkers to live with the dignity and respect they deserve, and make our city fairer,” de Blasio said, according to Gothamist.
Residents only need to submit a notarized affidavit to the Department of Health affirming that the requested change will reflect their gender identity, and will no longer be required to provide any documentation from a physician or therapist. See the document here.
deBlasio signed the legislation in October, similarly opining that the measure allows residents to “live [their] truth” and “tell the government who they are and not the other way around.”