In this politically charged, correct and progressive times, the terms “male” and “female” is now a major global issue after US President Donald Trump declared that these are the only two that he recognizes, which are assigned at birth genitals.

He does not care nor give credit to the 72 other scientifically acknowledged, identified gender identities besides being male and female. Also, all funded programs and projects the previous administration that addressed and supported the other gender identifications are not placed “on-hold” or for “further review” status but come to an end.

This proclamation of US President Trump was welcomed with glee and jubilation by the conservative, the religious and their cousins, the bigots and homophobes, as they chanted together that America will be great again because of this “moral” announcement.

It is a known fact that the possession of one genitals at birth equals an individual’s gender identity. It is a personal choice and it doesn’t need to be fixed. It is also not connected to a specific sexual orientation or preference.

Thus, I cannot help but wonder, with the political leaders that we have, and the many concerned and pious citizens that make it a point to be heard, will this first-world declaration from the most powerful man in the planet, have its Philippine version as well?

Boy, girl, bakla and tomboy

As someone who belongs to the Generation X demographics, we all grew up knowing that there are clear groupings of boys, girls, baklas and tomboys. The silahis (bisexual) only came into the grouping post-puberty and after personal experiences, research and observations.

These groupings peacefully co-existed, majority of them following the society script of courting, getting married, raising kids and families. Friendships were forged amongst the groups, lasting and real, going beyond the preferences and orientations.

Then the progressives came, making use of the rainbow as a symbol of diversity and the many beautiful characters and hues of a person are given recognition and space. They added more alphabets to be more embracing and welcoming to those who cannot identify and relate to the originals. And then, the trans women and men, queer and more came into light.

Despite these politically correct and inclusive labels, the “rainbow community” is not all that cohesive. It is more “divided” and more “makalat.” The progressives have not only become more assertive, they are arrogant with their sense of entitlement and projection that the world owes them understanding and respect.