Mexico allows birth certificate change for transgender people

LAREDO, Tex. (KGNS) - Mexico’s Foreign Affairs Ministry announced last month that it would allow transgendered people to request an amended birth certificate at several of its consulate offices in the U.S.

This is something that already changed the lives of many including one woman in our area.

After a long process, Tiffany Arabella Kennedy’s birth certificate conveys the gender she says she has always identified as, a woman.

Eight years ago, her legal name on her birth certificate was changed to Tiffany and two years ago, the gender was changed.

Tiffany says it was a long and difficult process but is thrilled to hear that other Mexican Citizen  will have to experience the struggle she went through.

Under new regulation by the Mexico’s Foreign Affairs Ministry, it would allow transgender people to receive an amended birth certificate at several of their consulates in the U.S.

This new regulation was announced in January, 67 consulates and 80 embassies worldwide are offering this modification.

These changes can be made here in the United States without traveling out of the country.

One of the most important requirements is that a person goes to the consulate and verbally expresses that they want their gender changed on their birth certificate.

Tiffany says, “Before I legally changed my name and my gender, when I would go look for a job my identity didn’t match my legal paperwork.”

She says this was very important for her since the transgender community phases a lot of discrimination and judgment.

Jose Canseco with the Mexican Consulate in Laredo says this new birth certificate will not show there was a modification.

Canseco says, “This new birth certificate will not contain any mention about the change of gender the change of name will also be available with a change of gender.”

By requesting name and gender changes, people must provide original birth certificate an official identification and two witnesses who also need to provide identification and fill out a form.

Tiffany says this opportunity changed her life and gave her relief.

“I can go look for a job now that I have my name legally and my gender changed, I don’t get any you know judgement or any discrimination it’s just a simple you know like she’s applying for a job”, said Tiffany.

Canseco says the Mexican Foreign Mexican Ministry reaffirms its commitment to create a safe space for the LGBTQ plus community.

The consulate says if people are interested in this change, you can contact them at 956-723-0990.

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