The Muxe of Juchitan

JUCHITAN, MEXICO- OCTOBER 1: A young boy plays with a barbie doll as he leans on his mother in Juchitan, Mexico, October 1, 2002. In the southern Mexican town of Juchitan of roughly 85 thousand people and its ancient Zapotekan culture, no one wonders about men in women's clothing. In Juchitan, giving birth to a girl is celebrated whereas giving birth to a boy produces condolences. In this matriarchal society, strong female figures are revered and so many Zapotekan mothers choose one or more sons at a very young age to be raised as girls. It has become good luck and is even a blessing to have a muxe in the family. (Photo by Shaul Schwarz/ Getty Images)