It wasn’t until February of 2015 that the legal process for changing someone’s name and sex was made accesible to the trans community in Mexico City. Before, this entailed a lengthy, costly and grueling process, which could include a judge and tests. Now, thankfully, the process has become more streamlined. All one would need to present would be proof of Mexican citizenship, to be 18 years of age or older or have permission from a legal guardian, their birth certificate, their desired name, a filled out application form, oficial identification and proof of address. The process is only supposed to take a few months now and since its inception, thousands of people have successfully changed their documents to reflect their gender identity.
In Mexico City, 2015 was a big year for the trans community. That year, Mexico City Mayor Miguel Ángel Mancera declared Nov. 13 to be Trans People Day in the capital city. Although the trans community is making great strides, these achievements have only happened in the last two years. Mexico still has a lot of work to do when in comes to the overall safety of trans people in the country. As of 2016, Mexico has the second highest homicide rate of transgender people in the world.
So, what can you do? Donate your time or money to some great local organizations, spread the word, tell friends and family, volunteer. There are several great organizations in Mexico City that help support and offer services to trans folk. Here are a couple worth mentioning:
Red de Juventudes Trans México (Mexico Network of Trans Youth):
This organization began in 2014 and focuses on human rights and fighting discrimination and violence. It provides legal help and support to people who are transitioning, as well as workshops and talks on education, public policies, heath and identity for trans youth. They can be reached at their Facebook page.
Clínica Especializada Condesa (Condesa Specialized Clinic):
Apart from providing free STD testing and condoms, which is a great resource for anyone who is sexually active, this clinic is also the only in the country to provide free hormone treatment and psychological support to trans people! These services are available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. The clinic is located at Benjamín Hill 24, Condesa close to metro Patriotismo and Juanacatlán stations.
