Hunter Schafer, a sensational actress who became a star after acting in a role in HBO’s hit drama Euphoria, is now in controversy on the internet, after revealing how her new passport said “male” above “female.” The trans model and actress went on a rant on TikTok concerning her annoyance over a recent policy change by the Donald Trump administration that only recognizes two sexes by law: male and female.
Schafer’s Anger Over Passport Misidentification
In her viral video, Schafer indicated that she had declared herself “female” on the relevant forms for passport renewal but was extremely surprised to find the official document showing “Male” instead. She condemned the change in the policy as ignoring the truth of the existence of both transgender and non-binary individuals.
Her reply stung: “I am never going to stop being trans,” asserted Schafer. This declaration was lauded by the LGBTQ+ community, who viewed the issued policy as retrogressive in terms of accepting gender identity.
The Trump Administration Policy Change
Under Biden, the US government had already placed in gender-neutral option on passports whereby people could be ‘X’ instead of necessarily male or female. This was welcomed as an added gain for global inclusion. Trump, however, has undone this since taking office again.
Widespread condemnation from advocacy organizations and celebrities such as Schafer is due to the policy being perceived as an onslaught against the transgender person’s rights. The newly formulated policy was directed toward transitioned persons with legally changed gender markers who must go back to their sex assigned at birth in government records.
How the Internet Reacts to Schafer’s Video
Immediately after her post, social media exploded with comments from fans and activists. Some called it an infringement of human or individual rights with a passport that carried such classifications. Some others praised Schafer for bringing this issue to light regarding the living conditions of transgender persons under repressive judicial regimes.
Many LGBTQ+ organizations have also spoken out and have asked the government to reverse the decision. Some activists believe that such policies will become a precursor to more restrictions on transgender rights in healthcare, education, and employment protection.
Schafer’s Continued Activism
Hunter has long campaigned for trans rights, using her voice in Hollywood and the fashion industry for more inclusion. Off-screen, she has also collaborated with major brands and publications to educate the public about transgender and non-binary individuals and demonstrate how the passport policy violates their rights.
So far, most of her biggest fans characterize many as inspirations and beacons against policies trying to erase them from existence. The fact that even now trans people still have to continue the battle for being validated in terms of identity by law is shown by this latest outburst on ‘passport policies’.
The Bigger Picture
There has been much debate regarding the recognition of gender in state documents over time, and the case of Schafer has placed the issue back on the table for consideration. The case tells us that policy should be receptive and understanding of gender issues instead of trying to pigeonhole people into archaic molds.
As negotiations continue, waiting is what most will do as they wait to hear whether the policy will be changed by legal means or a public outcry. Schafer remains committed to calling for a society where the transgendered will be recognized and valued in every aspect of life.
