The US Department of State announced the addition of an "X" gender mark on passports and consular birth certificates for non-binary, intersex and non-sexual persons.
The State Department said that this action is part of continuing the process of updating its policies regarding gender marks on US passports and consular certificates of birth abroad, and in order to better serve all US citizens, regardless of their gender identity.
This measure was announced by Minister Anthony Blinken last June.
A statement issued by the State Department explained that the first US passport was issued with an X gender mark, and that it looks forward to offering this option to all passport applicants once they complete the required system and update the form in early 2022.
The department noted that it also continues to work closely with other US government agencies to ensure as smooth a travel experience as possible for all passport holders, regardless of their gender identity.
State Department spokesman Ned Price announced the State Department's commitment to promoting the freedom, dignity, and equality of all persons, including LGBT people.
According to a report published by the Associated Press, this option is expected to be presented in passport renewal applications next year.
The US diplomatic envoy for LGBT rights, Jessica Stern, said the moves were "historic and celebratory."
She added that it "brings government documents into line with the lived reality that there is a broader spectrum of human sexual characteristics.
"When someone gets identity documents that reflect their true identity, they live with greater dignity and respect," Stern noted.
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