Fakaleitī are individuals in Tonga who are assigned male at birth but express a feminine gender identity. The term is derived from the Tongan prefix faka- ("in the manner of") and leitī, a borrowing from the English word lady, thus meaning "in the manner of a lady". Fakaleitī represent a diverse group with varying gender identities and sexual orientations, often adopting feminine dress and mannerisms influenced by Western styles. While they may be marginalized or face discrimination, especially in youth, fakaleitī are generally accepted within Tongan culture and extended families, and have become visible in areas such as entertainment, tourism, and community work.

Gender expression

Fakaleitī constitute a heterogeneous group with diverse gender identities and sexual orientations, though many identify as androphilic (attracted to men). Some identify psychologically and socially as women, while others consider themselves to occupy a gender position outside the male-female binary. Mataele also works with the Pacific Equality Project, a non-profit group advocating for the decriminalization of LGBTQ people from post-colonial laws in the Pacific Islands.

See also

  • List of transgender-related topics

References

Further reading

  • Like a Lady in Polynesia