Third gender and Transgender

This is a page in progress. It's about societies, communities, and organizations that have recognized gender categories beyond the male-female binary.

Ancient Societies

The Indus Valley Civilization had transgender priests.

Early Israelites recognized several genders.

Zachar: male

Nekevah: female

Androgynos: someone with both male and female genitalia

Tumtum: someone with indeterminate or obscured genitalia

Ay’lonit: someone born female who develops male characteristics

Saris: someone born male who develops female characteristics

Indigenous Societies

The Kuna people have a third gender called Omeggid referring to those who are assigned male at birth and then adopt mainly feminine traits. The Omeggid often choose traditionally feminine professions such as weaving blouses called "molas."

The Zuni have recognized a third gender known as the lhamana who was assigned male at birth and adopted feminine characteristics. The lhamana "dressed as women and performed women’s crafts such as weaving and potting, but also had the physical strength to fulfill certain male-oriented pursuits such as hunting big game and cutting firewood."

Movements and Organizations

ACT UP had influential transgender members including Miss Major Griffin-Gracy. So has FIERCE!. Earth First! has a Trans and Women Action Camp (TWAC).

Resources

https://www.ncai.org/policy-research-center/initiatives/Pruden-Edmo_TwoSpiritPeople.pdf