Islamic cultures also reject tertiary genders. Why is western culture wrong for rejecting tertiary genders and some populations right to having things like two spirit?
The discussion about gender diversity, including concepts like tertiary genders or two-spirit identities, is complex and varies across different cultures and historical contexts. Here are some points to consider:
1. **Cultural Context**: Many cultures throughout history have recognized more than two genders. For instance, Indigenous cultures in North America have the concept of "Two-Spirit," which encompasses a range of identities and roles within those cultures. Similarly, South Asia has the Hijra community, recognized as a third gender. In these contexts, gender is often understood as a fluid and culturally specific concept rather than a strict binary.
2. **Cultural Relativism**: Each culture has its own belief systems, values, and practices concerning gender. What may be accepted or rejected in one culture can differ vastly in another. Western cultures have historically emphasized binary gender concepts due to various social, religious, and political factors. Critiques of this binary framework arise from recognition of the diversity of human experiences and identities globally.
3. **Human Rights and Recognition**: Advocating for the recognition of non-binary and third-gender identities in Western cultures can be rooted in principles of human rights and inclusivity. The push for a broader understanding of gender seeks to ensure that individuals can express their identities authentically and without discrimination, similar to how non-binary identities are recognized in some other cultures.
4. **Historical Perspectives**: Western views on gender have evolved over time and continue to do so. The binary understanding of gender has been challenged by feminist movements, LGBTQ+ rights activism, and increasing visibility of diverse gender identities. This shift reflects a growing acknowledgment of personal identity as a deeply personal experience that can transcend traditional categories.
5. **Intersectionality**: The conversation around gender identity cannot be separated from issues of race, class, sexuality, and other identity markers. The ways in which different cultures understand gender can intersect with these various aspects of identity, leading to unique expressions and experiences of gender.
6. **Respect for Diversity**: Ultimately, the conversation around gender identity and expression benefits from a respect for diversity. Recognizing and validating the experiences of those who identify outside the binary framework can lead to greater understanding and acceptance across cultures.
In summary, the rejection of tertiary genders or non-binary identities in some cultures does not inherently make those cultures "right" or "wrong," as each cultural context has its reasons for how gender is perceived. Advocating for the recognition of diverse gender identities is part of a broader effort to support individual rights and combat discrimination, reflecting an evolving understanding of gender that is inclusive and respectful of personal identity across cultures.


