President Donald Trump has signed a controversial executive order redefining gender in federal policies since his return to office earlier this week. Among over 200 orders signed within days, the directive titled “Defending Women From Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government” enforces a binary definition of gender based on biological sex assigned at birth.
The new policy eliminates the option for non-binary individuals to select an “X” gender marker on passports and other federal documentation, reversing progress made under the Biden administration. This change has drawn praise from supporters who claim it ensures consistency in federal records but has sparked backlash from LGBTQ+ advocates, who warn it erases non-binary identities and imposes barriers on affected individuals.
Critics argue the policy undermines constitutional protections and expect legal challenges. For non-binary Americans, estimated at 1.2 million, this decision raises concerns about recognition and inclusivity. As applications for “X” markers freeze, the directive’s broader implications for civil rights remain under scrutiny.
