FTM Sex-Realist Manifesto

We are transmen and stand on the following principles:

1. We are natal females. Sex is defined by gametes. Females have large immobile gametes. Males have small, mobile gametes. These are reproductive categories.

2. We define “gender” as the societal expectations of our sex, which are oppressive. We are gender non-conforming females. We reject the oppression of female masculinity. 

3. We can not change which reproductive category we belong to. It is a biological reality and therefore a part of our self conception. 

4. We have chosen to masculinize our appearance by way of testosterone and in some cases surgery. We are women who pass as men. 

5. We assert that sex-based spaces are necessary for our safety, privacy and dignity.

6. We have experienced harm in mixed sex spaces, such as sexual assault.

7. We want our own spaces and intend to create them. This includes but is not limited to public bathrooms, changing rooms and shelters. 

8. We stand in solidarity with lesbians and all women who want and need their own spaces, free from men. 

9. We don’t want to use men’s spaces. However, we recognize that we also don’t belong in all women’s spaces, unless invited, because we pass as men and may frighten women. We need third spaces.

10. We have our own needs as transmen, which are separate and different from the needs of men and transwomen (who are of the male sex). As females, we require contraceptives, access to abortion, and bodily autonomy.

11. We are opposed to pornography. The fetishization and objectification of our bodies is harmful. 

12. We want a strong, healthy community for transmen, to support and resource one another. 

13. Though some of us use male pronouns, we do not force others to comply with our preferences. 

14. We are opposed to violence, threats, and dehumanizing, hateful rhetoric against feminists or gender critical activists. 

15. We are opposed to minors being medicalized. Minors can not consent to permanent alterations to their bodies. 

16. We support the bodily autonomy of consenting adults of sound mind.

17. We reject the concept of “gender identity” as it’s being currently defined. We do believe in Gender Identity Disorder/Gender Dysphoria/Incongruence, which is a part of the developmental psychology of homosexuality. For children, this is a common and most often temporary aspect of proto-homosexuality. 

18. We believe that Autogynephilia (AGP)) is real and the primary motivator of heterosexual men wanting to become women. Men with AGP and women/lesbians with incongruence have little in common. We are not the same and do not wish to be lumped together under a single banner of “trans”. 

19. We promote healthy sexuality, dating and relationships and support one another to achieve them.

20. We promote healthy body image, self-care, and mental wellness.

If you are a transman who agrees with this statement, we'd love to hear from you. Help us build a strong community of lesbros!