By Ashley Legassic

‘X’ gender identity now recognized on B.C. ID

Nov 2, 2018 | 2:07 PM

VICTORIA — British Columbians who don’t identify as either male or female have a new choice for their government ID.

The provincial government says in a news release that an ‘X’ will be the third option in the gender field of their B.C.-issued driver’s licence, identity card, birth certificate and BC Services Card.

“Since last summer, we have been working on changes to government documents in recognition and respect of people who do not identify as male or female,” says Health Minister Adrian Dix in the release. “Including the ‘X’ gender designation on key ID is an important step in this.”

The ministries of Health, Citizens’ Services and Attorney General have collaborated to include the X designation option, which came into effect yesterday, Nov. 1.

“We are taking action to move British Columbia into the 21st Century when it comes to gender identity,” says Citizens’ Services Minister Jinny Sims. “This is a step in the right direction to ensure that identity documents better reflect identity. It is the right thing to do.”

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Attorney General David Eby adds that the lack of an alternative for those who do not identify as male or female has previously resulted in cases in front of the Human Rights Tribunal.

“This change is a step in the right direction to promote inclusivity for all people in British Columbia,” Eby says.

The ministries are also exploring moving to a non-medical model of gender identification to advance equity and inclusivity.

If you’re interested in submitting a change of gender designation application form, go here.