For Transgenders, Identity Papers Are No Simple Matter

[Shana A]

For Transgenders, Identity Papers Are No Simple Matter
By Sutthida Malikaew

http://www.ipsnews.net/news.asp?idnews=52132

BANGKOK, Jul 13, 2010 (IPS) - In New Zealand, where Sujinrat Prachathai enjoys resident status, she is a woman able to append 'Mrs' to her name to signify that she is married. Here in Thailand, however, she has to be addressed as 'Mr' since she is still considered male even though she underwent a sex-change operation years ago.

Predominantly Buddhist Thailand is generally tolerant of homosexuals and transgenders, some of whom have risen to prominence in the entertainment industry. For so-called 'ladyboys' or males who live as and look like women, there is also a term, 'katoey'.

But like many transgenders in Thailand, Sarah – also known locally as Jim Sarah from her acting days - would like to be able to formally identify herself 'Miss' or 'Ms', if not 'Mrs' – which is still not possible here under the law.

[Butterfly]

For Transgenders, Identity Papers Are No Simple Matter
IPS
By Sutthida Malikaew
13 July, 2010


http://www.ipsnews.net/news.asp?idnews=52132


BANGKOK, Jul 13, 2010 (IPS) - In New Zealand, where Sujinrat Prachathai enjoys resident status, she is a woman able to append 'Mrs' to her name to signify that she is married. Here in Thailand, however, she has to be addressed as 'Mr' since she is still considered male even though she underwent a sex-change operation years ago.

Predominantly Buddhist Thailand is generally tolerant of homosexuals and transgenders, some of whom have risen to prominence in the entertainment industry. For so-called 'ladyboys' or males who live as and look like women, there is also a term, 'katoey'.