The Government of Mexico has marked a historic day by issuing its first passport to a non-binary person. Oziel, who received the document, will now have their gender marked with an X in their passport, making Mexico one of 16 countries worldwide that recognize non-binary gender. The government chose to deliver the passport on the International Day for the Fight against Homophobia, Lesbophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, using the occasion to celebrate and promote the cultural shift towards greater inclusivity.
A Cultural Shift towards Inclusivity
This decision marks a cultural change in Mexico, with the Secretary of Foreign Relations, Marcelo Ebrard, describing it as a quantum leap forward. While acknowledging the challenges involved in implementing such a move, Ebrard emphasized that identity is a basic human right and that this type of document “changes lives.” He highlighted that while Mexico is still catching up with countries like Austria and Australia, progress is being made, and the government is committed to protecting vulnerable groups.
Promoting Dignity and Equality
Trans legislator Salma Luévano Luna hailed the passport as a significant milestone that recognizes the dignity and rights owed to non-binary people. This move represents yet another legal milestone in Mexico, where all states now recognize same-sex marriage, and the Supreme Court has granted trans children the right to rectify their gender in birth certificates.
A Growing Movement for Inclusivity
The move by the Mexican government comes amid a growing movement worldwide towards greater inclusivity for the LGBTQ+ community. Non-binary individuals are disproportionately marginalized, and their recognition and protection represent a crucial area of focus for governments worldwide. With the issuance of this passport, Mexico has joined a select group of countries committed to promoting dignity, equality, and inclusivity for all people regardless of their gender identity.
