Fakaleit?

Fakaleitī

Fakaleitī (also spelled fakafefine or leiti) is a term used in Tonga to describe individuals who are assigned male at birth but embody a feminine gender expression. The term is part of the broader cultural understanding of gender diversity in the Pacific Islands, similar to the fa'afafine in Samoa and māhū in Hawaii.

Etymology

The word "fakaleitī" is derived from the Tongan words "faka," meaning "in the manner of," and "leitī," a Tongan adaptation of the English word "lady." Thus, "fakaleitī" can be translated to "in the manner of a lady."

Cultural Context

In Tongan society, fakaleitī individuals have traditionally been accepted and integrated into the community. They often take on roles that are considered feminine, such as caregiving, domestic work, and participation in the arts. Fakaleitī are known for their contributions to Tongan culture, particularly in dance and performance.

Social Roles

Fakaleitī often occupy unique social roles within their communities. They may be involved in organizing community events, participating in traditional ceremonies, and contributing to the cultural life of Tonga. Their presence is generally accepted, and they are often seen as embodying both masculine and feminine qualities.

Gender Identity and Expression

Fakaleitī individuals may identify with a range of gender identities. Some may see themselves as women, while others may identify as a third gender or maintain a fluid gender identity. The expression of gender among fakaleitī is diverse, and there is no single way to "be" fakaleitī.

Legal and Social Challenges

While fakaleitī are generally accepted in Tongan society, they may still face legal and social challenges. Discrimination based on gender identity and expression can occur, and there may be limited legal protections for fakaleitī individuals. Advocacy groups continue to work towards greater acceptance and legal recognition of gender diversity in Tonga.

Comparison with Other Pacific Cultures

Fakaleitī share similarities with other gender-diverse identities in the Pacific, such as the fa'afafine in Samoa and the māhū in Hawaii. These identities reflect a broader understanding of gender that transcends the binary framework often found in Western cultures.

See Also

• Fa'afafine
• Māhū
• Gender identity
• LGBT rights in Tonga

References

• Besnier, Niko. Gossip and the Everyday Production of Politics. University of Hawaii Press, 2009.
• Schmidt, Johanna. "Fakaleitī (Tonga) and Fa'afafine (Samoa): 'Gender Liminality' in the Pacific." In Gender on the Edge: Transgender, Gay, and Other Pacific Islanders, edited by Niko Besnier and Kalissa Alexeyeff, 2014.