Fa'afafine: Samoan Boys Raised As Girls

Summary

The video script explores the unique cultural identity of fa'afafine, individuals assigned male at birth but raised in a third gender role in Samoan society. It delves into their experiences with societal expectations, physical and emotional abuse, and the journey of self-acceptance. The narrative highlights the varying degrees of femininity among fa'afafine and the supportive yet complex family dynamics. It also touches on the broader implications of gender identity and the challenges faced by fa'afafine in Samoa and the diaspora, including issues of representation and misunderstanding in media and society.

Takeaways

• 🌈 The term 'fa'afafine' refers to a Samoan concept of individuals assigned male at birth who adopt a feminine gender role and identity, embodying both the flair and creativity of the female gender and the strength of the male gender.
• 🏳️‍🌈 Fa'afafine individuals are not necessarily transgender or gender non-conforming; they occupy a unique and respected place in Samoan society, often taking on roles that blend both traditionally masculine and feminine tasks.
• 👨‍👨‍👧‍👦 In Samoan families, the expectation and acceptance of fa'afafine vary; some families may designate a male child to take on a female role if there are no girls, while others support the individual's expression of their identity.
• 👨‍👦‍👦 Fa'afafine can face physical and emotional abuse, including public humiliation and violence, which can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation, as well as coping mechanisms like substance abuse.
• 🌏 The Samoan Fa'afafine Association, with Ymania as its technical director, works to support and advocate for fa'afafine, with an estimated 2,000 to 3,000 fa'afafine in Samoa and many more globally.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 The concept of fa'afafine is deeply rooted in Samoan culture and is not a recent development; it is an integral part of the Samoan community, with a history that predates modern societal acceptance.
• 👨‍👧‍👦 Some fa'afafine, like Leo, may resist the role and try to prove their masculinity through sports or other traditionally male activities, only to later embrace their fa'afafine identity.
• 💃 The expression of femininity among fa'afafine can vary widely, with some identifying strongly with female gender roles and others maintaining a more androgynous presentation.
• 👩‍❤️‍👨 Fa'afafine can form relationships with both men and women, often challenging traditional gender and sexual norms, and their partners may not identify as gay due to the feminine spirit of the fa'afafine.
• 🌟 Despite societal acceptance in Samoa, fa'afafine face challenges in other cultures and countries, such as Australia, where they must navigate different societal expectations and gender norms.

Q & A

What does the term 'fa'afafine' refer to in Samoan culture?

The term 'fa'afafine' refers to individuals assigned male at birth who adopt a feminine gender role and attributes traditionally associated with women in Samoan culture.

How does the Samoan society view fa'afafine?

Fa'afafine are respected and accepted within Samoan society, holding a unique place and fulfilling certain roles. This acceptance is deeply rooted in Samoan culture and is not a recent development.

What kind of expectations and roles are placed on fa'afafine within Samoan society?

Fa'afafine are expected to take on female gender roles and labor roles within the family and society. This includes adopting behaviors and responsibilities traditionally assigned to women.

How does the upbringing of fa'afafine differ from that of other children in Samoan families?

Fa'afafine may be raised differently from other children in Samoan families, with some being groomed from a young age to behave in a manner typical of women, while others may be nominated as the 'fa'afafine' in a family of all boys by the mother.

What challenges do fa'afafine face in terms of physical and emotional abuse?

Fa'afafine can face physical abuse such as being beaten or having their pants pulled down in public, and emotional abuse like being called a girl in front of others. These experiences can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation.

How does the concept of fa'afafine compare to Western understandings of gender?

The concept of fa'afafine differs from Western understandings of gender as it does not strictly adhere to the binary male/female dichotomy. Fa'afafine embody aspects of both genders and may not identify strictly as male or female.

What is the estimated number of fa'afafine in Samoa and abroad?

There are estimated to be between 2,000 and 3,000 fa'afafine in Samoa alone, with additional numbers living in countries such as the United States, New Zealand, Australia, and Europe.

How does the Samoan Fa'afafine Association support its members?

The Samoan Fa'afafine Association, led by individuals like Ymania, provides support and advocacy for fa'afafine, helping to ensure their rights and well-being are protected.

What are the different experiences and perspectives of fa'afafine regarding their identity and upbringing?

Fa'afafine have diverse experiences and perspectives on their identity and upbringing, with some feeling they were born with the spirit of fa'afafine, while others may have been raised as such due to family dynamics or other factors.

How do fa'afafine form relationships and what are the societal views on these relationships?

Fa'afafine form relationships based on individual preferences, with some partnering with men who do not identify as gay because they view the fa'afafine as a 'woman.' Society's views on these relationships can vary, but in Samoa, there is generally an acceptance of such partnerships.

What are some of the coping mechanisms fa'afafine have used to deal with abuse and societal pressures?

Some fa'afafine have turned to activities like sports or other outlets to prove their masculinity and cope with societal pressures and abuse. Others have sought support from understanding family members or communities.