The province of Newfoundland and Labrador will introduce legislation this fall to allow gender-neutral birth certificates.
The announcement follows a court challenge from activist Gemma Hickey, who maintained the province’s Vital Statistics Act was a violation of Canada’s Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
Hickey, who doesn’t identify as either male or female, called the announcement “historic.”
Under the legislation, people 12 or older will be able to chose an “X” on their birth certificate.
Those aged 12 to 15 must have a parent apply on their behalf, with the child’s consent still required.
The legislation will also remove the requirement for a statement from a medical professional prior to a sex-designation change for those 16 or older.
Newfoundland and Labrador will become the second Canadian province or territory to allow gender-neutral birth certificates, joining the Northwest Territories.
Ontario has said it plans to introduce similar legislation.
With files from CBC, CBC, Toronto Star
For reasons beyond our control, and for an undetermined period of time, our comment section is now closed. However, our social networks remain open to your contributions.