Cher Speaks Out Against Trump’s “Biological Passport Policy,” Calling It “A Step Backward for Human Rights”

Cher, the 78-year-old pop icon and longtime advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, has once again stepped into the political spotlight. This time, she’s taking aim at what many are calling one of the most controversial rulings of the decade — the Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the so-called “biological passport policy,” a measure requiring that an individual’s passport list the sex assigned at birth rather than their gender identity.

While the decision has drawn support from some conservative figures who argue it restores “clarity and order” to legal documents, Cher’s reaction was immediate and fiery. In a statement posted to her official X (formerly Twitter) account on Thursday night, the Grammy-winning singer wrote:

“This isn’t about truth — it’s about control. Everyone deserves to live as who they are, not who the government says they must be.”

Her post quickly went viral, drawing over five million views within the first few hours. By Friday morning, hashtags such as #StandWithCher and #GenderFreedom were trending across multiple platforms.

A Pop Legend with a Political Voice

Cher has never been one to shy away from political issues. Over her six-decade career, she has used her fame to speak out on everything from women’s rights to climate change. During the Trump administration, she frequently voiced opposition to the former president’s policies, particularly those affecting the LGBTQ+ community.

Her latest comments on the “biological passport policy” reaffirm her reputation as a fearless cultural commentator — one who bridges entertainment and activism.

“She’s one of the few artists of her generation who still engages publicly with issues that matter,” says Dr. Elaine Foster, a media studies professor at UCLA. “Cher’s influence goes beyond music. Her words resonate with millions who see her as a voice for authenticity and compassion.”

Divided Reactions: Applause and Outrage

Unsurprisingly, Cher’s statement sparked intense reactions. Supporters hailed her as “a hero of empathy,” praising her for defending gender-diverse communities at a time when rights for transgender Americans face growing legislative challenges.

“Cher has always stood up for us,” wrote one fan on Instagram. “She gets it — being yourself shouldn’t be a political issue.”

However, critics accused her of being “out of touch” with what they describe as a commonsense policy. Commentator Mark Delaney, writing for the conservative outlet American Liberty Watch, called her response “another example of Hollywood’s disconnect from ordinary Americans.”

“Celebrities like Cher want to erase biological reality in favor of feelings,” Delaney wrote. “The rest of us just want truth on government documents.”

The clash of perspectives underscores how deeply divided the U.S. remains over questions of gender identity and state recognition.

The Broader Context: A Nation Debating Identity

The Supreme Court’s 5–4 ruling in favor of the biological passport policy has become a lightning rod for the broader debate over gender and governance. Supporters of the decision argue that maintaining biological sex markers ensures consistency in legal and security systems. Opponents, however, see it as a direct assault on the dignity and rights of transgender and nonbinary people.

Human rights organizations, including the ACLU and Human Rights Campaign, have denounced the policy as unconstitutional and discriminatory. “It’s a cruel reminder that our identities are still being policed by the state,” said Sarah Gonzales, a spokesperson for the HRC. “For many, a passport isn’t just a travel document — it’s a statement of existence.”

Cher echoed that sentiment in a follow-up interview with Rolling Stone. “I’ve met people who’ve had to fight their entire lives just to be recognized as themselves,” she said. “To see the government strip that away feels heartbreaking. We’re supposed to move forward, not backward.”

The Power — and Pressure — of Celebrity Activism

Cher’s involvement in social issues is part of a growing trend among entertainers using their platforms to shape public discourse. Yet experts note that such visibility comes with risks.

“Celebrities face enormous scrutiny when they enter political conversations,” says Dr. Foster. “While their influence can amplify important causes, they also become targets for backlash — often more for who they are than for what they say.”

Indeed, Cher’s post drew both admiration and hostility, with some online critics reviving old accusations of elitism or irrelevance. Still, her commitment appears unwavering.

“I’m 78,” she tweeted later that night. “If I can still sing on stage for two hours, I can damn well speak up for what’s right.”

A Cultural Battle with No Easy Resolution

The controversy surrounding the biological passport policy — and Cher’s outspoken response — highlights how the battle over gender identity continues to shape America’s cultural and political landscape.

For some, the debate centers on government consistency; for others, it’s about the right to live authentically without bureaucratic interference. Either way, voices like Cher’s ensure that the conversation remains impossible to ignore.

As social media debates rage on, one thing is clear: in a nation still wrestling with questions of truth, freedom, and identity, even a single tweet from a pop legend can spark a movement.