Changes now in effect allow changes to the gender designation on Manitoba birth registrations and certificates without proof of sex-reassignment surgery.
“This is a very sensitive and personal issue for transgendered Manitobans seeking to change their identity documents, and we want to make the process as respectful and fair as possible,” said Tourism, Culture, Heritage, Sport and Consumer Protection Minister Ron Lemieux, who announced the new policy.
Lemieux said he was proud that Manitoba “is taking these important steps to make this process more fair and respectful, and align with human rights codes legislation.”
As of Feb. 1, Manitoba no longer requires proof of surgery for transgendered individuals to change their sex designation on Vital Statistics Agency (VSA) birth documents.
Following consultations with stakeholder groups and health-care professionals, it was determined that applicants could provide a statutory declaration and a supporting letter from a health-care professional, the province said.
This approach respects Manitoba’s Human Rights Code, provides credible evidence to maintain the integrity of Manitoba birth certificates and meet the needs of other identity document issuers such as a driver’s licence and passport, Lemieux said.
“We are pleased to see the province take this important step toward easing the documentation process for those wishing to change their sex marker,” said Mike Tutthill, executive director of Winnipeg’s Rainbow Resource Centre, which supports transgendered Manitobans. “Anyone changing their gender identity has much on their mind and we truly appreciate the province listening to the concerns of individuals. It’s a great relief to have the official paperwork portion made more user-friendly.”
The VSA will continue to work on additional amendments, such as a change of sex designation certificate for Canadian citizens not born in Manitoba, Lemieux said.
