The Treasured Test in The Islands of Tahiti

In Polynesian tradition, in addition to masculine and feminine, a third gender is recognized: these individuals are known as “māhū“. This term refers to individuals who embody both masculine and feminine qualities, blurring the boundaries between traditional gender roles. Another term related to a different gender identity in Polynesian culture is the individual referred to as “raerae“: a person assigned male at birth who identifies as a woman. In Western cultures, these individuals may be referred to as transgender women. The presence of “raerae” and “māhū” in Polynesian society underscores the importance of acceptance and understanding of others, values deeply rooted in the local culture