Female Masculinity by Jack Halberstam validates the assertion of women who feel more masculine than feminine. The author believes that society pays more attention to male femininity and overlooks female masculinity. Masculine women should not be discriminated against or feel stigmatized. Rather, they should feel proud of their bodies and turn stigmatization into strength. Patriarchal society refers to young masculine girls as tomboys but discriminates against them when they become adults. Halberstam argues that people use vulgar language to describe masculine women. For instance, using the word ‘lesbian’ is wrong because it reminds people of the past perception of masculine women.
The book faults vocabulary terms used to describe women who feel more masculine but trapped within a female body. Stone femme is perceived as despicable people who hate both men and women. However, such archaic thinking should not be tolerated. Transgender people, particularly trans women, have also faced a similar fate of treatment. Trans men may overlook female homosexuals. Society should accept every kind of person irrespective of his or her gender identity. The author also debates against coverage of the LGBTQ+ community by media. The coverage of this group by the media is biased because it portrays a negative image.
The issue of drag queens performing more than drag kings in clubs and theaters shows how women are despised. Mainstream media and films focus more on drag queens than drag kings. As well, people are willing to attend concerts performed by men in drag than women in a similar category. Halberstam believes that there should be lesbian drag tradition. Generally, the book highlights and emphasizes the recognition of masculine women in society.
