LITTLE ROCK -- The ACLU of Arkansas today stands in firm opposition to the proposed changes to identity documentation that threaten the safety and dignity of transgender, non-binary, and intersex Arkansans. Accurate and consistent identity documents are a fundamental necessity, enabling individuals to travel, secure employment, open bank accounts, and enroll in educational programs. For transgender people, in particular, an ID that accurately reflects their true self is not just a matter of dignity — it is crucial for their safety and well-being.
This proposed policy seeks to erase the existence of non-binary and intersex Arkansans by denying them identity documents that reflect their true selves, forcing them into categories that do not represent their identities. The ability to use a gender-neutral marker, such as “X,” is essential for the safety and recognition of non-binary and intersex individuals — a stance supported by 22 states, the District of Columbia, and federal regulations regarding passports and other documents.
Labeling this policy rollback as a "commonsense approach" is not only misleading but deeply harmful. Such outdated, disproven, and discriminatory ideas about gender identity do nothing to protect people; instead, they alienate and endanger the transgender community. Esteemed medical and mental health organizations, including the American Medical Association and the American Psychological Association, advocate for the right of individuals to self-certify their gender on identification documents, recognizing that personal identity should not be dictated by the state.
We strongly oppose the Governor and the Department of Finance and Administration’s (DFA) attempt to implement this regressive and damaging policy. It is shameful that they have failed to consider the significant impact such measures will have on the lives of many Arkansans. We call upon the Governor and the state DFA to reconsider their stance and commit to policies that ensure equality and dignity for all.
Recent actions by the Governor illustrate a continued pattern of targeting vulnerable minorities, silencing dissent, and infringing upon the rights and privacy of Arkansans. She has been a textbook example of how to abuse the power of office for government overreach intruding into the private lives of Arkansans in violation of our rights and dignity.
We stand in solidarity with transgender, intersex, and non-binary people of Arkansas and all those who face oppression at the hands of the government. We will continue to fight for our right to live authentically and safely in our communities.