An In-between Life (Press, 23 April 1975)

On April 22, 1975, in Auckland’s Supreme Court, a transgender woman referred to as “Miss X” experienced another setback in her quest for legal recognition as a female. Mr. Justice McMullin's written judgment described her as “Air X.” Since undergoing a sex change operation in 1969, Miss X has faced numerous challenges in gaining acceptance of her new identity. The lack of legal recognition has resulted in practical difficulties in her daily life, including the simple act of using public toilets, where she struggles to decide whether to use the men’s or women’s facilities. Miss X expressed frustration over her inability to marry a man, despite having lived in a de facto relationship with a partner for seven years. She explained that the ongoing legal battles have strained their relationship and stated, “It’s coming to an end now.” She emphasized that she won't feel secure in any future relationship until her legal status is resolved. In addition to her personal struggles, Miss X is seeking financial independence but has faced difficulties finding suitable employment. While she has successfully appealed decisions from the Social Welfare Department to remain on an emergency unemployment benefit, the terms of her latest appeal mean she may soon have to navigate the appeal process once again to retain this support. Preferring anonymity for fear of unwanted attention rather than being recognised as a transsexual, Miss X shared that she comes from a large family, having six sisters and two brothers. She recalled her childhood, stating she was a typical boy but always felt destined to marry a man. Acknowledging the physical challenges that make this difficult, she expressed her desire for the freedom to live as a normal woman without pity. Miss X, alongside her legal adviser Mr S. Lockhart, is actively seeking guidance from legal authorities, including the Minister of Justice Dr Finlay and the Ombudsman Sir Guy Powles. They intend to ask for assistance in advocating for legislation that would allow for a change in her birth certificate’s sex notation. This change would provide a crucial answer to a question she frequently contemplates: “What am I?”

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