“Live! Work! Pose!”: Re-Imagining Trans Representation in Pose

Abstract

[eng] Pose displays a sympathetic, non-transphobic representation of trans women since they are portrayed as diverse and non-stereotypical. While the series has attracted a lot of critical attention, the discussion on its key characters in relation to the issue of class is minimal. Furthermore, there is a lack of analysis regarding advocacy against transphobia and sexism depicted in the show and performed by the trans women protagonists. The aim of this paper is to analyze and reflect on Pose’s politics of trans representation through gender and trans theory perspective. Accordingly, this paper will demonstrate that Pose visibilizes trans women’s experiences and histories by portraying non-stereotypical, non-othered and activist trans women as well as by pleading for an intersectional and minorities-led approach to activism. On the one hand, Pose diverges from portraying transness as something negative. In fact, the series presents trans women as relatable and approachable and debunks representational issues of trans women. The usage of aesthetic devices is relevant since the series uses them in an alternative way to the conventional methods of the film industry so as to not objectify trans women. On the other hand, Pose vindicates the role of trans women as advocates against social injustices such as sexism and transphobia. Additionally, the show portrays trans women fighting against the stigmatization of HIV and AIDS and as people of influence among the queer youth to educate them about the ways to prevent the exposure to the diseases. Ultimately, the paper concludes that Pose is a useful production that benefits the acceptance and inclusion of the LGBTQ+ community, specifically the trans community, in society.