Travestis

Definition

Travestis are a group of transgender individuals in Latin America who are assigned male at birth but live and identify as women. They often engage in sex work and are part of the broader LGBTQ+ community, challenging traditional gender norms and expectations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Travestis in Latin America have a long history of cultural and social acceptance, dating back to pre-colonial times.
2. They often undergo hormone therapy and body modifications to align their physical appearance with their gender identity.
3. Travestis face high levels of discrimination, violence, and social marginalization, particularly in the context of sex work.
4. The term 'travesti' is distinct from the term 'transgender' and reflects the unique cultural and historical context of gender diversity in Latin America.
5. Anthropological research on travestis has contributed to a greater understanding of the intersections of gender, sexuality, and social class in the region.

Review Questions

• Explain how the concept of travestis relates to the broader field of sexuality and gender in anthropology.
  • The study of travestis in Latin America provides important insights into the diversity of gender expression and identity across cultures. As a group that challenges traditional gender norms, travestis offer anthropologists a unique lens to examine the social, cultural, and historical factors that shape understandings of sexuality and gender. By exploring the experiences of travestis, anthropologists can better understand the complex interplay between biology, culture, and individual identity, which is a central focus of the field of sexuality and queer anthropology.
• Describe the role of sex work in the lives of travestis and how this intersects with broader issues of marginalization and social inequality.
  • Many travestis in Latin America engage in sex work as a means of economic survival and social acceptance, as they often face high levels of discrimination and limited employment opportunities. This intersection of gender identity, sexuality, and socioeconomic status highlights the complex challenges faced by the travesti community. Anthropological research on travestis has shown how their involvement in sex work is shaped by structural inequalities, social stigma, and the need to assert their gender identity and expression. Understanding the lived experiences of travestis in the context of sex work can provide important insights into the intersections of gender, sexuality, and social justice.
• Analyze how the study of travestis has contributed to the development of queer anthropology and the broader understanding of gender diversity across cultures.
  • The anthropological study of travestis has been instrumental in the development of queer anthropology, a subfield that examines the cultural and social construction of gender and sexuality. By exploring the unique experiences and identities of travestis, anthropologists have challenged Western-centric notions of gender and sexuality, and have contributed to a more nuanced and inclusive understanding of the diversity of gender expression and identity across cultures. The study of travestis has also highlighted the importance of intersectional approaches in anthropology, as it reveals the complex interplay between gender, sexuality, class, and other social identities. This holistic understanding of gender diversity has expanded the theoretical and methodological frameworks of anthropology, and has contributed to a more inclusive and representative discipline.

Related terms

Transgender: Individuals whose gender identity or expression differs from the sex they were assigned at birth.

Gender Expression:

The external manifestation of one's gender identity, through clothing, behavior, interests, and appearance.

Sex Work: The exchange of sexual services, performances, or products for material compensation.