ABSTRACT
Non-binary gender identity has recently become more widely known and engrained in the public sector. Individuals who identify as non-binary see themselves outside of the traditional male-female system that is the foundation for economic, social, and political institutions. The traditional gender binary system can be discriminatory and exclusive for non-binary individuals. Arguments for adopting inclusive gender identity policy and practice are often rooted in social equity. The Constitution provides a foundation to increase social equity for non-binary gender identity policy and administrative practice. As public administrators take an oath to uphold the values of the Constitution, this expanded treatment of gender equity is highly relevant to understanding our foundational public values and reshaping institutions that remain largely unquestioned. Non-binary identities are increasingly becoming normalized and accepted, and while this is encouraging, it is not enough. This chapter presents a normative argument for adopting non-binary gender policy and practice based on social equity regime values. Then, it offers practical recommendations for non-binary gender identity state-issued identity documents. Altering our very definition of gender is no easy task, especially because gender is an organizing societal structure. Ultimately, non-binary gender inclusion necessitates a serious rethinking of our public values and restructuring of our most fundamental institutions of governance.
