Content area
Abstract
Detangling non-binary gender identity from the socially constructed normative conceptions of femininity and masculinity, race, and religion, is a risk that may affirm or deter transgender people. This narrative study explored the intersectionality of race, class, religion, and gender identity along with implications of "doing gender" as transgender people. The narrative approach enabled transgender people to serve as subjects of their own story, rather than as objects of a research study. Through in-depth interviews with four transgender people, (two trans women and two trans men, with one of each who identified as a person of color) and ethnographic observations at Gay Pride festivals, Drag shows, and LGBTQ community events and meetings, this study examined how intersectionalities of life experiences shape transgender identity. Participants described their experiences binding binary concepts while navigating their decisions to start the transitioning process. Findings highlighted misconceptions of transgender inclusion in the so-called LGBT community which is, in practice, more of an LGB community; and alternative support systems including social media and communities of faith which serve as sanctuaries of hope. Based on the study's findings, the following assertions apply: transgender people experience marginality within the mainstream LGBT community, faith is important in deciding to reconcile body and mind as a core belief that God created the fluidity of diverse human expression, identities evolve, and race trumps a person's gender identity.
