That’s a really good point. I guess where I’m coming from is based in the thought that gender is, to my mind at least, less loaded than race. I’m part First Nations Canadian, but not Status. There’s a real issue in Canada and the US of white people claiming Status, and pulling funding or land from reparations programs/treaties(historically and today) that should rightfully go to the descendants of the people that were and are still the victims of genocide and systemic racism.
I don’t see anything wrong with someone of a different genetic heritage taking on the culture, and being part of the communities, but there’s verifiable damage that can be done by saying:
Yes, you’re First Nations now, here’s your Status card.

This is happening.
And with gender, there’s no real loss from opening the definition, and everything to gain in terms of equality and fair treatment for everyone.

I hope I was coherent, the coffee hasn’t quite kicked in yet.