Article | August 1, 2025
Beyond the Binary: Indigenous and Global Gender Identities That Have Always Existed
By Nicholas O'Connor
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PHOTO: SS Fa'afafine Yuki Kihara
When people say being trans or nonbinary is “a new thing,” what they’re really saying is they haven’t been paying attention to history.
Long before colonialism imposed strict binaries, cultures around the world recognized and honored a wide spectrum of gender identities. This isn’t a trend. It’s a return.
PHOTO: SS HISTORY CHA
Two-Spirit (Turtle Island/Indigenous North America)
Many Native American nations recognize Two-Spirit people as sacred, holding both masculine and feminine spirits, or existing outside those categories entirely. Two-Spirit roles vary tribe by tribe, but they were often healers, matchmakers, leaders, or artists before colonization disrupted Indigenous gender systems.
Important note: “Two-Spirit” is a term reclaimed by Indigenous communities and should not be used by non-Native people to describe themselves.
PHOTO: SS OW WO
Hijra (South Asia)
In India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, Hijras have existed for centuries and appear in sacred Hindu texts. Hijras often live in intentional communities and may undergo gender-affirming surgeries. They have historically held ceremonial roles, especially at births and weddings.
Despite systemic discrimination today, Hijras continue to fight for legal recognition and social dignity.
Fa'afafine and Fa’afatama (Samoa and Polynesia)
In Samoa, Fa’afafine (assigned male at birth) and Fa’afatama (assigned female at birth) are gender identities that don’t align with Western binaries. They are integrated into society, respected in family life, and often perform roles that mix masculinity and femininity fluidly.
PHOTO: SSAMEOS
Other Global Identities
Bakla (Philippines): A complex identity often combining feminine expression and gay identity.
Waria (Indonesia): A blend of “wanita” (woman) and “pria” (man), referring to transfeminine people.
Muxe (Zapotec people of Oaxaca, Mexico): A third gender that’s respected within their communities.
Why This Matters for Trans Youth Today
Knowing that gender diversity is ancient helps us understand that transness isn’t deviant—it’s divine. It’s part of a long, sacred lineage.
For every law that tries to erase you, remember: you are part of something bigger. Trans identities are not new. You are not alone. And your truth is valid—past, present, and future.
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