Transgender representation in media and literature is experiencing a cultural shift as more representations of transgender people become visible in mainstream popular culture. A cultural narrative is formed through the increase in transgender representation, depicting a social norm that is not inclusive for all transgender people and severely stigmatized. Janet Mock, in her book Redefining Realness: My Path to Womanhood, Identity, Love & So Much More, explores her truth and advocates the importance of living an individually based authentic existence, while erasing the bigoted stigma associated with mainstream medias representation of transgender people. This paper will focus on the representation of transgender people in media, the influence of Mock’s autobiography, and why representation is important in academia, especially for youths. The importance of representation of transgender and non-conforming gender identities is vital to the mental, physical, social, and economic well-being of individuals who identify themselves as transgender, nonbinary, or genderqueer. Research demonstrates that LGBTQIA teens that do not have their identities reaffirmed “have higher rates of suicide, mental health, homelessness and school dropout rates” …show more content…
In an interview with Tina Vasquez, Mock exclaims “I wasn’t just a trans woman; I was a trans woman of color.” Throughout her autobiography, Mock refers to all her identities to demonstrate how they have impacted her experience growing up as a transgender woman of color, while acknowledging her privilege when necessary. The intersectionality of identity and identities are significant in demonstrating the social and cultural norms that act upon the individual and reflect in their experience to the world around them. Perspective is always influenced by experience, which is why representation and education is essential to growth and