02 Mar Facebook now allowing users to describe gender with whatever words they choose
Facebook announced Thursday (25 February) that it has expended its gender options to include a free-form field.
This means of a user of the popular social media site doesn’t identify with any of the gender options listed on Facebook, they can simply write in their own.
Facebook said in a statement: ‘We recognize that some people face challenges sharing their true gender identity with others, and this setting gives people the ability to express themselves in an authentic way.’
The expanded custom gender option is available to everyone who uses Facebook in US English.
The move expands upon what Facebook did last year when it expanded its gender options to more than 50 selections.
The move was applauded by several LGBTI groups.
‘By empowering people to talk about their gender in their own words, Facebook continues to be a leader in its commitment to respecting and protecting LGBT users,’ said GLAAD President & CEO Sarah Kate Ellis.
Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network Executive Director Dr. Eliza Byard agreed.
‘Facebook’s new free-form field for gender identity is a huge step forward for transgender, gender nonconforming and gender queer youth,’ Byard said in a statement.
Soruce: Gay Star News