Facebook Now Does Not Restrict Gender Name Options
Free-Form Field Added to Facebook’s Gender Options.
(Photo: Soshable)
Facebook announced yesterday that it will expand its gender options to include a ‘free-form’ field. The new field allows Facebook users who don’t identify with any of the pre-existing 58 choices included on the site to write in their own gender identity.
“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,” said Facebook.
The move to the new gender option follows the addition of the gender-neutral options for family member identification and customizable options with about 50 different terms that can be used to identify gender as well as preferred pronouns in 2014.
Dr. Eliza Byard, Executive Director of GLSEN (Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Education Network) called the move “a huge step forward for transgender, gender nonconforming, and gender queen youth.” She also said, “The Internet is an essential source of resources, support, and community for LGBT youth, and one of its most important ‘living rooms’ no better reflects their reality and self-understanding.”
-by Sarah Furlong
