The Representation and Perception of Trans Women and Erection in Visual Media

The "Blahaj" Meme (Yes, the IKEA Shark) You can't talk about modern trans culture without mentioning the IKEA Blåhaj (blue shark) stuffed animal. It started organically online because the shark is blue, white, and pink—the colors of the trans flag. Today, owning a Blåhaj is a quiet, adorable badge of community membership.

  • Advocate in your workplace/school for gender-neutral bathrooms and inclusive anti-harassment policies.
  • Consume media by trans creators – books, films, music. (Examples: Elliot Page, Indya Moore, Kim Petras, Disclosure on Netflix).
  • Speak up when you hear anti-trans jokes or misinformation – silently witnessing is complicity.
  • Economic Inequality: Trans people face higher rates of workplace discrimination and housing instability compared to cisgender gay and lesbian individuals.