Looking to become more inclusive, dating app Tinder announced Tuesday that it will soon allow users to identify themselves as transgender.
Previously, Tinder only allowed users to identify as “male” or “female” when setting up a profile. Now, the app will allow users who don’t identify to traditional gender roles to select one of nearly 40 auto-fill selections or type in a custom gender label. Users will be able to search for prospective dates based on their gender identity.
Tinder users will also have the option of displaying their gender identity on their public profiles.
CBS reports that the change comes after a number of trans people reported being harassed on the app, and others reported being blocked and reported by other users.
According to CNN, Tinder worked closely with GLAAD, an LGBT advocacy group while developing the changes.
"Some trans people will only want to go on a date with someone who knows they are trans," Nick Adams of GLAAD told CNN. "But trans people have different strategies for dating and some would prefer to go on a date first and then disclose."
"We are a business, but we are in the business of making sure everyone can meet someone special," Tinder CEO Sean Rad told CNN. "Letting our users be who they are is the right thing. If anyone has a problem with that, then they are welcome to not use Tinder."
Alex Hider is a writer for the E.W. Scripps National Desk. Follow him on Twitter @alexhider.
