Celebrating Graduates & Preparing for Summer Travel

Yesterday afternoon, we celebrated the achievements of many of the graduating LGBTQIA+ students at Whitman. A whopping 51 students registered to participate in this year’s Lavender Graduation and the event was a wonderful expression of queer brilliance, perseverance, community and care. In the weeks ahead, there will be additional events to commemorate the achievements of our graduates.

Next Thursday, May 15, the Glover Alston Intercultural Center will coordinate their annual Intercultural Excellence Stole Ceremony. On Friday, May 23, International Student and Scholar Services will recognize the international graduates from the Class of 2025. Finally, on Saturday, May 24, the Baccalaureate ceremony will honor this year’s graduates at a nondenominational program that centers the deep meaning and spiritual significance of graduation. Family, friends and supporters of the graduates are welcome at all of these celebratory events. 

As we move to and through Commencement season, we are overflowing with happiness for the achievements of Whitman’s remarkable students. We also understand that for many in our community, post-graduation brings with it both exciting new opportunities and some significant personal challenges. We wanted to take a moment to encourage all of the students to center their well-being as we enter finals season and transition to the summer. We also wanted to provide some guidance for folks who are preparing to travel outside of the area. 

REAL ID Enforcement—Effective May 7, 2025

As you prepare for summer travel, whether for study abroad, internships, or personal reasons, be advised that starting today, the REAL ID Act will be enforced by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). All U.S. travelers aged 18 and older must present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or an alternate approved form of identification (such as a valid U.S. passport) to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities. In Washington State, Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs) qualify as REAL ID-compliant. Students with out-of-state licenses are encouraged to check the status of their IDs through the Department of Homeland Security REAL ID page.

International Student Travel Abroad

For international students traveling outside of the U.S. this summer, we would encourage them to connect with International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) as they begin making plans. The ISSS staff can help them identify information sources and travel advisories that may impact their travel schedule. With the shifting political landscape, processing times for important and necessary travel documents may be impacted and itinerary adjustments may be prudent. Reach out to ISSS staff early with specific questions about international destinations because each student’s situation may be different.  

Passport Marker Changes and Gender Identity

As of January 2025, the U.S. Department of State has suspended passport applications and updates that involve the “X” gender marker. Existing passports with “X” markers remain valid until their listed expiration. This temporary policy change may increase scrutiny and logistical complications for gender-diverse travelers. The following recommendations can help mitigate barriers and ensure your rights are protected.

TSA Screening Guidance and Identity Rights

1. Ensure Identification Matches Reservation
   Make sure that your legal name, gender marker and birth date match exactly between your travel ID and ticket. Even small discrepancies can trigger additional screening.
2. Understand Your Rights During TSA Screening
   TSA uses Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT), which is programmed with binary gender settings. This can result in incorrect flagging for individuals whose bodies do not match the scan expectation. Remember, you have the right to:
3. Opt for a Pat-Down Instead of Going Through the Body Scanner

• • Request a TSA officer of a specific gender to conduct any search.
  • Ask for a private screening and have a companion present.
  • Decline disclosing personal medical or gender identity information.

3. Carrying Medical and Gender-Affirming Items
   TSA permits travel with items such as:

• • Hormone therapy supplies (e.g., syringes, gel, patches)
  • Prosthetics, packers and binders
  • Medications or liquids exceeding 3.4 oz (if medically necessary)
    
    We recommend storing these items in carry-on luggage with labels where possible and notifying the officer discreetly if needed. For formal documentation support, see: TSA Medical Notification Card.

4. If Harassed or Mistreated

• • Request to speak to a TSA supervisor.
  • Ask for a complaint form at the airport, or submit one online.

Additional LGBTQIA+ Travel Resources

To support your planning, we recommend the following resources:

• National Center for Transgender Equality—Know Your Rights: Airport Security
• Lambda Legal—Know Your Rights
• Transgender Law Center—ID Document Center
• Whitman’s LGBTQIA+ Student Services
• Whitman’s International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS)