Fakaleitī are individuals inTonga who are assigned male at birth but express a femininegender identity. The term is derived from theTongan prefixfaka- ("in the manner of") andleitī, a borrowing from the English wordlady, thus meaning "in the manner of a lady".[1] Fakaleitī represent a diverse group with varying gender identities and sexual orientations, often adopting feminine dress and mannerisms influenced byWestern styles. While they may be marginalized or face discrimination, especially in youth, fakaleitī are generally accepted within Tongan culture and extended families, and have become visible in areas such as entertainment, tourism, and community work.
Fakaleitī constitute a heterogeneous group with diverse gender identities and sexual orientations,[2] though many identify asandrophilic (attracted to men).[3] Some identify psychologically and socially as women, while others consider themselves to occupya gender position outside the male-female binary.[3] Their gender expression often includes feminine clothing, hairstyles, and makeup, typically influenced byWestern or cosmopolitan styles rather than traditional Tongan dress. However, presentation may vary depending on context, with some fakaleitī adopting masculine attire in daily life and more feminine styles during social events.[1]
The classification of fakaleitī does not align neatly with Western categories such as male, female, homosexual,transgender, ornon-binary. In Tonga, the term has traditionally focused more on gender roles and behavior than on sexual identity. Fakaleitī may or may not experiencegender dysphoria, andsurgical transition is not universally pursued, as gender identity is often grounded in social roles rather than anatomical sex.[3]
Fakaleitī occupy a complex social position in Tongan society. While they are often marginalized and subject to discrimination or violence—especially in youth—they are generally accepted within family structures, which are foundational in Polynesian cultures.[1] Some fakaleitī are vulnerable tosexual slavery, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.[3]
Despite societal ambivalence, fakaleitī often find employment in sectors associated with tourism, hospitality, and entertainment.[3] Their involvement in activities perceived as modern or foreign, such as nightlife and non-marital relationships, has contributed to their association with social change and transnational influences.[1] Within religious contexts, particularly theChristian churches central to Tongan society, fakaleitī may be accepted through their financial and social contributions, even as their gender and sexuality remain contested.[3]
TheTonga Leitis' Association organizes theMiss Galaxy Pageant in Tonga. They have also been involved in reforming colonially influenced laws about leitī life that remain in Tonga. In 2018 a documentary film,Leitis in Waiting, was made about leitī leaderJoey Joleen Mataele and the efforts of the Tonga Leitis' Association.[4] Mataele also works with the Pacific Equality Project, a non-profit group advocating for the decriminalization of LGBTQ peoples from post-colonial laws in the Pacific Islands.[5]
