Tri-Ess

Tri-Ess, or the Society for the Second Self, is an international social and support organization for heterosexual crossdressers and their partners and spouses. Because men who crossdress have long been subjected to discrimination from the dominant society, female-presenting crossdressers often feel ashamed of their identities and do not know others like themselves. Before the rise of the Internet, many believed that they were “the only one.” Tri-Ess has helped many crossdressing men accept themselves—and for their partners and wives to accept them—and provided a supportive community for both groups. Through its publications and media appearances, the organization has also increased awareness of the experiences of crossdressers and decreased the stigma they feel.