Facebook has unveiled new options for the gender field in order to more accurately reflect a user's identity.
by Newsdesk | 14th Feb 2014
Facebook announced that they had added new gender options for users, with new privacy settings. It is hoped that it will help indicate which pronouns a user would like others to use when describing them or wishing them a 'happy birthday' for instance.
'This new feature is a step forward in recognizing transgender people and allows them to tell their authentic story in their own words," said GLAAD President Sarah Kate Ellis. "Once again, Facebook is on the forefront of ensuring that the platform is safe and accessible to all of its LGBT users.'
Up until now users of the social media giant had to choose between Male or Female in the gender category, now members have the option to choose up to 10 terms to better describe their gender.
Jennie Kermode, the chair of Trans Media Watch in the UK said:
'We welcome Facebook's move and we're especially pleased that they consulted thoroughly with stakeholder groups first. Things are changing in a big way for non binary identified people this year, and we're glad to see a big company like this taking the lead. We hope it will inspire other companies and state bodies to do likewise.
'We are pleased that the new options are a completely free choice so no-one will feel forced to identify in an uncomfortable way, and we're glad that Facebook is opting to keep changes of gender status out of timelines, so people can move between them more discreetly. We are also glad that, going forward, it is taking a flexible approach which acknowledges the varied concepts of gender in different cultures around the world.'
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