Teacher Hina

A proud and confident transgender native Hawaiian teacher passes on the ancient tradition of Māhū – those who embody both male and female spirit − by inspiring a young tomboy to lead a boy’s Hula troupe, even as she searches for love and a committed relationship in her own life. Teacher Hina brings the unique perspective of Pacific Island culture to bear on a controversial issue of the day: visibility, acceptance, inclusion, and human rights for transgender and gender nonconforming people, including respect for indigenous perspectives and cultural practices. In this film a world is portrayed that recognizes those who display both male and female characteristics as gifted and special. A world where youth who are searching for their own creative forms of gender expression are embraced and encouraged to be themselves rather than to hide in fear or pretend they are just like everyone else.