Transgender refers to individuals who experience a disconnect between their internal gender identity and the gender they were assigned at birth based on their physical characteristics. For instance, someone who was assigned male at birth but identifies as female is considered transgender. Some transgender individuals may identify as both male and female or neither male nor female. The term cisgender, on the other hand, describes individuals whose gender identity aligns with the gender they were assigned at birth.
Transgender is a term used to describe individuals whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth. For instance, a transgender woman was assigned male at birth but identifies as female, while a transgender man was assigned female at birth but identifies as male. Some transgender individuals do not identify as strictly male or female, and may identify as a combination of both. It’s important to understand that being transgender is distinct from being gay or lesbian. Gender identity pertains to who a person is, while sexual orientation pertains to who a person is attracted to. For example, a transgender woman attracted to men would identify as a straight woman, and a transgender man attracted to women would identify as a straight man. The opposite of transgender is cisgender, which refers to individuals whose gender identity aligns with the sex they were assigned at birth. Some terms used by individuals who do not identify as strictly male or female include androgynous, non-binary, or genderqueer. These examples demonstrate that gender identity does not always align with the sex assigned at birth, and that there are numerous ways for individuals to express their gender identity.
Yes, in many countries and states, transgender individuals have the right to change their gender marker on identification documents through a legal process, such as a court order or administrative procedure.
Many jurisdictions have laws that prohibit discrimination based on gender identity, including in employment. However, the specific protections and remedies available may vary depending on the country or state.
Laws regarding restroom access for transgender individuals vary by jurisdiction. Some places have laws that allow individuals to use restrooms that align with their gender identity, while others have restrictions or no specific laws in place.
Military policies regarding transgender individuals vary by country. In some countries, transgender individuals are allowed to serve openly, while in others, there may be restrictions or bans in place.
Many jurisdictions have laws that enhance penalties for crimes committed against individuals based on their gender identity or expression. These laws aim to provide protection and justice for transgender individuals who are victims of hate crimes.
In most countries and states, transgender individuals have the right to legally change their name through a court process or administrative procedure. This allows them to align their legal name with their gender identity.
Many jurisdictions have laws that prohibit discrimination based on gender identity in housing. These laws aim to ensure that transgender individuals have equal access to housing opportunities without facing discrimination.
Access to gender-affirming healthcare varies by jurisdiction. In some places, there are laws that require insurance coverage for gender-affirming treatments, while in others, access may be limited or not covered by insurance.
Policies regarding transgender participation in sports vary by jurisdiction. Some places have inclusive policies that allow transgender individuals to participate in sports that align with their gender identity, while others have restrictions or require certain criteria to be met.
The ability to change the gender marker on a birth certificate varies by jurisdiction. Some places have laws or administrative procedures that allow transgender individuals to update their birth certificate, while others may have more restrictive requirements or no specific provisions in place.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.
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