Transgender Star Hunter Schafer Faces Passport Gender Marker Issue

Hunter Schafer, a transgender actress known for her role in HBO's Euphoria, has expressed her shock after receiving a U.S. passport that inaccurately lists her gender as male. The incident highlights ongoing issues related to gender identity recognition in the United States, particularly following policies introduced during Trump's administration.

Hunter Schafer, the transgender star of HBO's critically acclaimed show Euphoria, has recently voiced her dismay after receiving a new U.S. passport that lists her gender as male, despite her having filled out the paperwork as female. In a candid TikTok video, Schafer showcased the "M" designation on her new travel document, expressing her shock and frustration at the situation. "I just didn't think it was actually going to happen," shared the 26-year-old actress, while also criticizing the gender policies established under former President Donald Trump.

Upon taking office, Trump implemented an executive order that only recognized two binary sexes, male and female, based on a person's sex recorded at birth. This directive effectively curtailed the ability for individuals to self-identify their gender on official documents. Prior to these changes, U.S. citizens could indicate their gender on passports or opt for an "X" marker, a designation for non-binary and gender non-conforming individuals. The Biden administration had promised to reinstate this option, but the current passport system still predominantly operates under the previous guidelines.

Schafer had applied for the passport replacement after losing her previous one while working abroad. She noted her concerns about potential complications at the airport given the discrepancies between her gender identity and the newly issued document. Reflecting on her experience, she believes this passport issue is indicative of broader societal challenges faced by transgender individuals in the U.S.

"This is real and it's happening," Schafer emphasized, urging awareness that the struggles of transgender individuals affect everyone, regardless of privilege or background. Although she has made strides in establishing her gender identity on legal documents such as her driver's license, she disclosed that her birth certificate remains unchanged. Schafer conveyed anxiety about the necessity to "out" herself repeatedly, especially in border control situations.

As Euphoria continues its compelling narrative, Schafer's real-life experiences shine a light on the ongoing complexities and challenges that transgender individuals face within societal and bureaucratic frameworks.