A RaeRae is an individual who is assigned male at birth but identifies and lives as a woman, a distinct gender identity recognized within Polynesian culture.
Understanding the RaeRae Gender Identity
The term "RaeRae" describes a specific gender identity found in Polynesian societies, such as Tahiti. Individuals identified as RaeRae are biologically male but adopt the social roles, behaviors, and self-perception of women. This identity is not merely about cross-dressing but encompasses a deeply felt internal sense of self.
Key aspects of the RaeRae identity include:
- Assigned Sex at Birth: Male
- Gender Identity: Woman
- Expression: Behaves as and considers oneself to be a woman.
This cultural understanding highlights that gender can be distinct from biological sex and is shaped by cultural meaning, personal identity, and societal recognition.
Cultural Significance and Context
The concept of RaeRae, often discussed alongside Mahu, serves as a powerful example of what is sometimes referred to as a "third gender" or culture-bound transsexuality/cross-dressing. Unlike some Western perspectives that might classify such identities as medical or psychiatric conditions, the RaeRae identity holds a recognized and respected place in the history of Polynesian society. It is viewed as a legitimate cultural identity rather than a disorder.
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | Polynesian cultures (e.g., Tahiti) |
| Assigned Sex | Male |
| Gender Identity | Woman |
| Cultural Status | Recognized and culturally meaningful, not a medical condition. |
Differentiating RaeRae from Western Concepts
It is crucial to understand that the RaeRae identity operates within a specific cultural framework that differs from many Western classifications of gender. The historical recognition and cultural meaning of being a RaeRae mean it is not considered a medical or psychiatric condition. This perspective offers a valuable insight into the diverse ways human societies understand and categorize gender beyond a binary male/female framework.
