Notes: The Gender Dysphoria Bible

Introduction

• Transgender Definition: Refers to individuals whose gender identity differs from their sex assigned at birth.
• Historical Context:
  • Non-binary gender identities have existed throughout history and across cultures:
    • Gala (middle gender priest class) in Sumerian empire, over 4,500 years ago.
    • Recognition of a third gender in Indigenous cultures of North America pre-European colonialism.
    • African tribal cultures with multiple gender identities, suppressed by European colonization.
• Modern understanding of transgender experiences emerged ~130 years ago.
  • Term "transgender" coined in 1965 by John Oliven.
  • Previous terms: "transsexual" (David Cauldwell, 1949), "transvestite" (Magnus Hirschfeld, 1910).

Gender Identity

• Transgender experiences:
  • Individuals can recognize their transgender identity at any life stage.
  • Lack of exposure or understanding can delay recognition of gender incongruence.
• Misconceptions:
  • Common misconception that dissatisfaction with assigned gender isn’t equivalent to transgender experiences.
  • Media narratives often misrepresent transgender experiences, contributing to misunderstanding.

Gender Dysphoria

• Definition: Discontinuity between societal presumed gender and internal sense of self.
• Political aspect:
  • Varied opinions within trans communities about what constitutes gender dysphoria.
• This site’s definition: Broad terms of incongruence with sex assigned at birth.
  • Validates any form of gender identity incongruence as a valid transgender identity.

Purpose of Site

• Document manifestations of gender dysphoria.
• Explore forms of gender transition.
• Guide for:
  • Individuals questioning their gender identity.
  • Persons starting or continuing their transgender journey.
  • Allies wishing to support and understand better.