Course

SPAN-490 Senior Inquiry in Spanish

Document Type

Student Paper

Publication Date

Spring 2025

Disciplines

Gender and Sexuality | Indigenous Studies | Latin American Studies | Native American Studies | Other Feminist, Gender, and Sexuality Studies | Queer Studies | Social and Cultural Anthropology

Description, Abstract, or Artist's Statement

This work is a cultural analysis of the Indigenous Zapotec third-gender community in Juchitán, México called the muxes. It examines the historical context that explains how the muxes have survived the process of Spanish colonization: a history of resistance and pride in their Indigenous identities. This essay also explains the European norms of the gender binary and how the norms in Juchitán are different and unique. Then, it analyzes a few cultural spaces that are important to the Zapotec Indigenous identity and the gender identity of the muxes, such as the market and the festive celebrations known as Las Velas. This study also explores the discrimination faced by the muxes and the activist work that they engage in today. Finally, this essay analyzes perceptions of Mexican gender systems and what people living in the United States can learn from the rich history of gender identities outside of the gender binary.

Comments

2nd place winner, Long Analytical Essay, 2025

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