Kulu'u

Definition

Kulu'u refers to a recognized third gender identity in some Indigenous cultures of the Pacific Islands, particularly within Hawaiian and other Polynesian societies. This term encompasses individuals who may embody both masculine and feminine traits or exist outside the traditional binary of male and female, reflecting a rich cultural understanding of gender diversity. Kulu'u plays a significant role in social and spiritual contexts, as these individuals often hold unique responsibilities and privileges within their communities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Kulu'u individuals often hold a special status in their communities, seen as mediators between the genders and possessing unique insights into both masculine and feminine experiences.
2. The concept of kulu'u challenges Western notions of gender binaries, illustrating how different cultures can have diverse understandings of gender identity.
3. Kulu'u may take on specific roles related to spirituality, caregiving, or ritual practices, highlighting their importance in cultural traditions.
4. Historically, the acceptance of kulu'u reflects the flexible and fluid nature of gender roles in Indigenous Pacific societies before colonial influences imposed strict gender norms.
5. Revitalization movements among Indigenous groups today emphasize the importance of recognizing and honoring kulu'u identities as part of cultural heritage and resistance against colonial legacies.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of kulu'u reflect the understanding of gender diversity in Indigenous Pacific cultures?
  • The concept of kulu'u illustrates that Indigenous Pacific cultures recognize and embrace gender diversity beyond the male-female binary. Kulu'u embodies a fluid understanding of gender identity, where individuals may possess characteristics of both genders or exist independently of them. This recognition reflects deep-rooted cultural beliefs that honor various expressions of gender, reinforcing the idea that identity is not strictly defined by physical attributes alone.
• In what ways do kulu'u individuals contribute to their communities socially and spiritually?
  • Kulu'u individuals often play vital roles in their communities by acting as mediators between genders, which helps promote harmony and understanding. Socially, they may take on caregiving roles or serve as advisors in family matters. Spiritually, kulu'u can hold significant responsibilities in rituals and ceremonies, symbolizing the integration of masculine and feminine energies essential to community well-being.
• Evaluate the impact of colonial influences on the perception and acceptance of kulu'u identities in contemporary society.
  • Colonial influences historically imposed rigid gender norms that marginalized third-gender identities like kulu'u, leading to a decline in their visibility and acceptance within many Indigenous communities. However, contemporary movements aimed at reclaiming cultural heritage have sparked a revival in recognizing kulu'u identities as valuable aspects of cultural identity. This shift not only challenges colonial narratives but also emphasizes the need for inclusivity and respect for diverse gender expressions within modern societies.

Related terms

Māhū: Māhū is a term used in Hawaiian culture to describe individuals who embody both male and female characteristics, often serving important cultural and spiritual roles within the community.

Two-Spirit: Two-Spirit is a modern umbrella term used by some Indigenous North American cultures to describe individuals who embody both masculine and feminine spirits, encompassing a wide range of gender identities.

Fa'afafine: Fa'afafine is a recognized third gender in Samoan culture, referring to individuals who are assigned male at birth but embody both male and female characteristics, often fulfilling unique roles within their families and communities.