Being A Transperson

Here is a brief introduction to trans issues. For a more in-depth discussion see Wikipedia.

A Bit of History

It is important to note that transgender is a relatively recent word (introduced in 1965).

In different periods and different cultures, different words have been used. For example, 'berdache' was the western term used to describe some Native American people who are now known as two-spirited.

In South Asia the term hijra has historically been used to include intersex, eunuchs and transgender people.

In the early 20th century the term third sex was commonly used.

By the mid 20th century the terms butch and femme were used (and still are to some degree) within the lesbian and gay community with the term 'kiki' being used for someone who does not identify as butch or femme.

Here is a link to a list of academic papers produced in 1995 by Lesbian Information Service.

What is important to remember is that some form of gender non-conforming behaviour has existed in different cultures in different periods of history and each era and culture responded in different ways.

In 21st century 'Western' cultures sex role stereotyping has never been so prevalent, especially for girls, with very few positive female role models who have short hair, let alone positive butch role models for lesbians.

It is within this context that a whole range of modern terms have evolved alongside modern, mainly medical, ways of responding to the issue.

More recent terms include:

Transgender

The term "transgender" is an umbrella that is used to describe people who feel the gender they were born with does not match their gender identity.

Crossdressers

wear the clothing of the other sex on occasion, but do not desire to change their sex. They dress for personal reasons, which can range from a need to express their feminine or masculine side, to them simply liking the clothes, to a way to express themselves erotically.

Drag Kings and Drag Queens

present more glamourous images of men and women, often exaggerating the sexual stereotypes for entertainment, feeling of empowerment and strength, or personal enjoyment.

Genderqueers, Androgynes, Gender Blenders, and Gender Benders

feel that they don't fit within the binary genders, they mostly feel that they are either both male and female, that they are neither male or female, or that they fall completely outside the system.

Transsexual

is most commonly used to describe people who don't feel they belong in the gender that they were assigned and change their gender roles and bodies in order to live as members of the "opposite" sex.

The level to which they transition varies. Some just change their names and birth certificates, others choose to have the operation fully, or just partly. Synthesized sex hormones, and cosmetic surgery like electrolysis, are available and increase successful passing.

There are both female-to-male (FTM) transsexuals and male-to-female (MTF) transsexuals. FTM's and MTF's both vary in their presentation of their gender, and range from extreme butch to extreme femme, and everything inbetween. Just as non-transsexual people vary.

Intersexed (hermaphroditic)

people are born with genitals which show characteristics of both sexes. Many have surgery while they are young, and many of those who do grow up feeling they been robbed of an essential part of themselves. Some intersexed people don't even know they are intersexed until later in life. For example, a woman may not realise she is intersexed until she has trouble trying to conceive, and further medical tests indicate that she is intersexed.

Sexual Orientation

Transpeople Can be Straight, Gay, Asexual, Bisexual, etc. Gender identity has nothing to do with sexual orientation. This is an important thing to bear in mind. Some trans people may identify strongly with the greater LGB community, while some may feel that they're heterosexual. Just as non trans people. Each person is different!

Transphobic Issues

Almost all transpersons and intersexed persons grow up with a deep sense of internalized shame. We don't choose to be who we are any more than do gay men, lesbians, or bisexuals. Actually, many of us actively fight our true natures, desperately trying to hide that side of ourselves or to fit into either the gay or straight culture. Our "coming out" process is very similar to that of gay men, lesbians, and bisexuals. Unfortunately, it can also result in loss of support from our family, friends, and employment.

Discrimination against transpeople can be exteremely difficult. We can become isolated and scared. That is why it is important to seek the trans communities, either online or local meetings, for support and friendships. In order for the trans community to live peacefully work needs to be done to fight transphobic attiudes, and work together against discrimination. A disproportionate number of "gay bashings" are directed at transpeople, who by our very nature are the most visible members of the "queer" culture.

Laws which negatively impact gay men, lesbian, and bisexuals affect transpeople in the same manner. Our rights to marry, to hold jobs, and otherwise fully participate as citizens in our modern society are as jeopardized as those of gay men, lesbians, and bisexuals. Trans people are often excluded from protection of laws protecting LGB people, and are affected by non trans friendly services. It's mainly for this reason, trans people have become politically active in recent years. We, as a community, are fighting for our rights, as people with the right for a life without fear.