Many in the Thai transgender community have become national and even global stars thanks to the growing popularity of cabaret shows, which attract millions to the island from across the globe.
No doubt, some transgenders are prettier and more feminine than “real women” and most of them would prefer to identify themselves as just that – full, heterosexual women; not gay, nor transsexual.
However, Thai law does not recognise them as women and requires all of its citizens to only identify themselves by their gender at birth, a controversial requirement that has been the topic of heated debate in Thai society for years.
To this, The Phuket News asks our readers: “Should people who identify themselves as transgenders or transsexuals be allowed to nominate the gender shown on Thai ID cards?”
Responses available in the poll are:
- Yes, but only if they have had gender re-assignment surgery.
- Yes, regardless of surgery. If they choose to be a man or a woman, that's their choice.
- Yes, but their gender at birth must be shown.
- No, only their gender at birth should be shown.
- Undecided - there are far too many arguments for and against whether genders should be shown at all on ID cards.
To cast your vote, click here.
The poll will run online until November 17.
If you find that the best response for you is not listed, feel free to mention in the comments below.