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Argentina Makes Sex-Change Surgery a Legal Right in Landmark Trans Law

Posted by on May 10, 2012 in World | 5 comments

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (AP) — Adults who want sex-change surgery or hormone therapy in Argentina will be able to get it as part of their public or private health care plans under a gender rights law approved Wednesday.

The measure also gives people the right to specify how their gender is listed at the civil registry when their physical characteristics don’t match how they see themselves.

Senators approved the Gender Identity law by a vote of 55-0, with one abstention and more than a dozen senators declaring themselves absent – the same margin that approved a “death with dignity” law earlier in the day.

My what a difference a hemisphere can make. While we’re busy (rightfully) applauding our sitting president’s announcement that he believes gay and lesbian couples deserve the right to marry, Argentina has almost unanimously voted to take care of their trans citizens and provide them with the health and legal resources they need. Both occasions are fantastic, but while we’re excited by a simple interview, Argentina is actually signing LGBT rights into law.

Congratulations, Argentina. My partner and I have long talked about marrying in Buenos Aires. You’re making it harder and harder for us to hold out for an American marriage opportunity.

(via AP)