An exploration of stigmatizing and normalizing experiences of individuals with multiple marginalized identities: A qualitative study of African-American male-to-female transgender persons

The current population of study, African American male-to-female (AAMTF) transgender persons, is a population whose members have multiple marginalized identities and experiences. Stigma is a term that best describes the treatment that perpetuates the marginalization of groups that are underrepresented, undervalued and voiceless. AAMTF transgender persons face severe social stigma due to their marginalized identities as homosexuals, racial minorities (Blacks), and gender-crossers.; Full exclusion from society is a serious and real fear faced by persons with multiple marginalized identities, forcing them often to give up or hide one of those identities. The review of literature outlines the experiences and identities of stigmatized (marginalized) groups to which AAMTF transgender persons may be members (i.e., African American communities, gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (GLBT) groups, African American GLBT (AAGLBT) populations, groups of persons living with AIDS or HIV (PLWA), and other types of minority groups).; The current study explores social trends as well as social interaction theories of stigmatized or marginalized groups and how they respond to their own and other groups. Furthermore, the study addresses how those interactions influence the development, maintenance, and restructuring of a stigmatized or normalized identity. Participants in the study reveal a necessity for AAMTF transgender persons to maintain under-cover, low-profile existences within Black neighborhoods in order to avoid social hostilities directed toward them.; Consistent with the little we currently understand of individuals with multiple marginalized identities, particularly sexual minority persons who belong to a racial/ethnic minority group, AAMTF transgender participants do not demonstrate appreciation for or commitment to GLBT, MTF transgender, AAGLBT or even AAMTF transgender community memberships. However, participants report outright and public embracement of and pride in the Black (racial/ethnic) communities to which they are members.; The implications of the current exploratory study suggest that although the typical AAMTF transgender person maintains a strong and defiant will and dedication for living, the social pressures on individuals with multiple marginalized identities are so great as to warrant a secretive, marginal and potentially endangered existence. This type of existence ultimately complicates nearly all opportunities for social networking, service outreach or adequate and fair representation.