In the Tadarimana Indigenous Territory of central Brazil, Majur Traytowu, a 35‑year‑old transgender woman, made history five years ago when she succeeded her father as chief of the Apido Paru village. Her appointment was celebrated as a sign that traditional Indigenous societies can embrace gender diversity.
Leadership and cultural significance
Traytowu, fluent in Portuguese and deeply versed in Bororo customs, has long been a bridge between her community and the outside world. Anthropologist André Drago notes that her rise was possible because she comes from a line of leaders and can navigate both Indigenous and national cultures.
In Bororo tradition, a person’s role is tied to community duties. Traytowu performed tasks traditionally associated with women—cooking, caring for children, and chanting at funerals—demonstrating her accepted place within the village.
Struggle with alcohol
Despite her respected status, Traytowu admits she began drinking heavily around the time she became chief. “It was a hard time, so I drank all out,” she said. Her mother, Jurema Adugo Oro, removed her from the chief position late last year, saying that without addressing the addiction, Traytowu would lose everything.
Psychologist Geni Nuñez explains that alcoholism is a common symptom of chronic strain in Indigenous territories, especially those near urban centers like Tadarimana.
Violence against trans people in Brazil
Brazil remains the deadliest country for transgender individuals. The National Association of Transvestites and Transgender People recorded 122 killings in 2024 and 80 in 2023. While Traytowu is celebrated outside her village, she faces a double burden of prejudice for being both Indigenous and transgender.
Other Indigenous trans people, such as Nat Kuparaka of the Pataxó, have been expelled from their families, often due to evangelical influences that label their identities as sinful.
Future hopes
Traytowu is determined to regain her chief role, hoping her story will inspire other Indigenous trans youth. “Girls who are afraid to come out find courage in me,” she says.
Her journey highlights the intersection of cultural tradition, gender identity, and the challenges of addiction within marginalized communities.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
