Intersectionality is an important concept to consider when discussing representations of transgender individuals in media. It refers to the interconnected nature of various identities and systems of oppression that can impact how someone experiences life.
A black transgender woman may face discrimination based on both her gender identity and race, which can have compounding effects on her experience. In this context, transgender representation in media has been historically limited and often problematic.
There are some positive examples of intersectional representations that provide a more nuanced understanding of the transgender community.
The portrayal of transgender characters in popular culture has typically been limited and stereotypical. Often, these characters are depicted as hypersexualized or fetishized, or their stories revolve around coming out or transitioning. This can perpetuate harmful narratives about trans people and reinforce existing prejudices.
The character Laverne Cox's character in "Orange Is The New Black" is frequently objectified and sexualized, despite being a successful lawyer who is involved in other plotlines outside of her gender identity.
Intersectional representations of transgender individuals can offer a more realistic and comprehensive view of the community.
The show "Pose," set in the ballroom scene of the late '80s and early '90s, features several trans women of color whose stories go beyond their gender identity. They explore issues such as racism, classism, HIV/AIDS, and family relationships. Similarly, the film "Tangerine" follows two African American trans women during Christmas Eve in Los Angeles, highlighting their complex lives and struggles.
Intersectionality is essential to understanding how representations of transgender individuals in media affect their experiences and identities. While progress has been made in recent years, there is still much work to be done to accurately represent all aspects of the community.
How does intersection with race affect representation of trans people in media?
According to Dr. Zoe Stauffer, an associate professor at Harvard University who specializes in gender studies and cultural anthropology, the portrayal of transgender individuals on TV shows, movies, and other forms of media have been dominated by white cisgender actors for decades. This means that the majority of characters who identify as trans are played by non-transgender performers.