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The TransCEND Canton Logo
Our logo is not just a random bird. The bird is a cardinal! There are a few reasons why our logo is a cardinal.
One definition of the word “transcend” is “to go beyond the limits.” The main purpose of TransCEND Canton is to help trans people overcome the limitations that they face. One way we do this is by facilitating a peer support group where transgender people are able to learn about resources available to them, as well as get support from other transgender people and allies. What better representation of overcoming limitations is there, besides a flying bird?
Sometimes cardinals are half-male and half-female. Here’s a recent National Geographic article about one such bird. When this happens, the bird is literally split down the middle. The bright red half of the cardinal contains male chromosomes (ZZ in birds). If you look at the other half of the bird, it has female chromosomes (ZW in birds). Not only do these birds look cool, but these split-sex cardinals are a great visual reminder that sex is not as black-and-white as it may seem on the surface!
Lastly, the cardinal is the state bird of Ohio. We are a group located in Canton, Ohio. This needs no further explanation!
Federally Compliant Ohio Drivers License and State ID Cards
Do you know that you have the choice between a standard card and a federally compliant card when you renew your Ohio drivers license or state ID?
The standard ID card does not require any additional documentation upon renewal.
The federally compliant card can be used to fly or enter federal facilities, including military bases. The compliant card does not replace your passport. If you are flying outside of the United States (including to Canada or Mexico) you still need a passport or passport card.
Much more documentation is required to get a federally compliant card. Often this includes a birth certificate. You cannot correct the sex on your birth certificate if you were born in Ohio. This means that you may be forced to out yourself at the BMV if you want a federally compliant card.
You can avoid outing yourself at the BMV by first obtaining a passport or passport card with the correct name and gender. A passport can be used in place of a birth certificate. You will still have to provide your original birth certificate and a doctor’s letter to get the correct sex listed on your passport, but this may be preferable to outing yourself in a crowded BMV office.
You can find out what documentation is required for renewal and how to handle name changes on our Drivers License and ID Cards page.