Hunter Schafer's Passport Controversy: What Does It Mean for Trans Rights in the US?

Hunter Schafer, the transgender actress and model best known for her role in HBO's Euphoria, recently revealed that her new US passport incorrectly lists her as male, despite her identifying as female and selecting the female option on her application. The revelation, shared through a TikTok video, has sparked widespread debate about transgender rights in the United States and the impact of the Trump administration’s policies on gender identity.

A Shock for Hunter Schafer

Schafer, 26, explained that she applied for a new passport after losing her previous one while filming overseas. Despite filling out the necessary forms to indicate her female identity, she was shocked to receive a travel document listing her as male. Her previous passport correctly identified her as female, making the sudden change even more alarming.

“I just didn’t think it was actually going to happen,” Schafer stated, expressing frustration and disbelief. She attributed the change to the policies of former President Donald Trump, whose administration has made sweeping changes to federal gender identity recognition.

Schafer also voiced concerns about the potential difficulties she may face while traveling internationally, including uncomfortable encounters with border security and the need to repeatedly “out” herself to officials.

Trump’s Executive Order and Its Impact

The controversy stems from an executive order signed by Trump on his first day back in office. The order states that sex is determined at birth and cannot be changed. Under this policy, the US Department of State now issues passports only with male or female designations based on an individual’s birth certificate, eliminating the previous ability to self-select gender markers. The Biden administration had introduced an “X” gender option in 2022 for non-binary and gender-nonconforming individuals, but that policy has now been revoked.

According to the State Department’s website, it will “only issue passports with an M or F sex marker that matches the customer’s biological sex at birth.” This shift has effectively erased the recognition of transgender identities in federal documentation, making it significantly harder for trans individuals to have their gender legally acknowledged.

Broader Implications for Transgender Americans

Schafer’s experience is not just a personal setback—it highlights a growing concern for transgender individuals across the country. The rollback of gender-affirming policies impacts more than just passports; it extends to driver’s licenses, social security records, and other legal documents. Without accurate identification, trans individuals could face greater risks of discrimination, travel restrictions, and legal complications.

Legal experts argue that these changes could have far-reaching effects, particularly for trans people who rely on updated identification to navigate daily life. Incorrect documentation could lead to workplace discrimination, healthcare access issues, and increased vulnerability in encounters with law enforcement or border control.

“This isn’t just about one passport—it’s about the systemic denial of transgender identities,” said a representative from the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). “By reverting to outdated and exclusionary policies, the administration is putting trans people at risk.”

A Legal and Political Battle Ahead

Advocacy groups and LGBTQ+ organizations are already mobilizing to challenge these policies in court. Civil rights groups argue that Trump’s executive order violates the rights of transgender individuals and could face legal challenges under anti-discrimination laws.

Meanwhile, Schafer’s public outcry has drawn attention to the issue, amplifying calls for the reinstatement of inclusive gender identity policies. Many of her fans and fellow celebrities have voiced their support, urging lawmakers to take action.

For now, Schafer is left to deal with the immediate consequences of her misgendered passport. “I just feel like it’s important to share that this is real, and it’s happening,” she said, emphasizing that no one—regardless of wealth, race, or status—is immune to the effects of these policies.

What Comes Next?

As the debate over gender identity and legal recognition continues, transgender Americans and their allies are left wondering what steps can be taken to protect their rights. With legal battles looming and political tensions high, the fight for trans rights in the US remains an ongoing and urgent issue.

Schafer’s case serves as a stark reminder of the tangible impact of government policies on marginalized communities. Whether this controversy leads to policy reversals or further restrictions remains to be seen, but one thing is clear—transgender Americans are facing an uphill battle in their quest for legal recognition and equality.