Words by Jamie Windust
Non-binary people in the UK are currently unable to identify themselves on legal documentation. Those who are gender-nonconforming are still prevented from self-identifying in institutions such as the NHS, HMRC and when applying for a new passport.
Taking the matter into their own hands, Activist and BRICKS contributor Jamie Windust is putting pressure on the UK Government to allow non-binary, gender non-conforming, gender-fluid and intersex people the right to self-identify via Petition. “After having to renew my passport etc… seeing that my gender was not able to be recognised was majorly dysphoric and stressful for me, and it is for so many people in the UK,” says Jamie on Instagram.
Last year, the UK Government hosted a consultation on the Gender Recognition Act which closed on 19 October last year. After gathering testimonies for 16 weeks, thousands of people took the opportunity to improve trans and non-binary rights by having a say on reforming the GRA; the results will be published this year. “I want this petition to combine with the results to apply more pressure on the government to allow us to self identify on legal documentation,” Jamie adds. And you can help by signing the petition here! With 10k+ signatures, the British government will respond to this petition. At 100,000 signatures, it will be considered for debate in Parliament.
Keep up to date with this petition and Jamie Windust by following their Instagram, @Leopardprintelephant