Trans embodiment is often seen as an act of resistance against cisnormative society, where cisgender individuals are perceived to be the norm and gender nonconforming identities are marginalized.
This narrative fails to acknowledge how trans embodiment can also reinforce cisnormative expectations and perpetuate violence against those who do not fit into the binary gender system. This essay will explore how trans embodiment can expose the gaze as a site of both oppression and affirmation, through an analysis of three different perspectives: historical context, contemporary experiences, and personal reflections.
Historically, trans embodiment has been criminalized and punished for challenging gender norms. In many cultures around the world, cross-dressing was considered a crime that could result in imprisonment, castration, or even death. Trans women were particularly targeted for their femininity, while trans men faced discrimination for violating masculine expectations. The gaze played a crucial role in these persecutions, as it reinforced the belief that trans people were abnormal and deviant from what was considered "natural." As such, trans embodiment became associated with shame and embarrassment, which continues to persist today.
In contemporary society, trans embodiment is increasingly accepted but still faces significant barriers. Many trans individuals experience discrimination in employment, healthcare, housing, education, and other areas of life due to their identity. They may face harassment, assault, and even murder simply because they do not conform to cisgender expectations. At the same time, trans visibility has increased and there is more media representation than ever before. This dualistic reality highlights how trans embodiment can be both liberating and dangerous, depending on who wields the gaze. When trans individuals are viewed as objects of curiosity or fascination by cisgender individuals, they become subject to exploitation and fetishization.
When trans people control the gaze and assert their own autonomy over their bodies and identities, they can reclaim agency and power.
Personally, I have experienced the conflicting effects of trans embodiment firsthand. Growing up, I was often teased and ridiculed for my gender expression, leading me to internalize feelings of shame and self-hatred. But as I began transitioning, I felt empowered by my ability to finally embody myself authentically. At the same time, I faced challenges navigating a world that was unaccustomed to seeing someone like me. While some people were supportive, others stared at me or made derogatory comments about my appearance. These experiences show how trans embodiment can both affirm one's individuality and expose them to scrutiny and judgment from others.
Trans embodiment exposes the gaze as a site of both oppression and affirmation. It challenges traditional ideas about gender while also opening up new possibilities for exploring identity and expression. By acknowledging these complex dynamics, we can work towards creating a society where all genders are celebrated and respected equally.
In what sense does trans embodiment expose the gaze as a site of both oppression and affirmation?
Trans embodiment exposes the gaze as a site of both oppression and affirmation because it challenges dominant ideologies that uphold cisgenderism as the normative standard for gender expression. On one hand, the gaze can be used to scrutinize, marginalize, and discriminate against trans people due to their nonconformity with traditional gender roles and expectations.