That’s why I’m all the more grateful that I can be like this. Which is also a bit absurd for me – that I have to thank someone that I can be who I am. Nevertheless, I feel free and as if I have finally arrived – now I have an inner feeling of contentment.
Do you feel seen as a trans* woman on International Women’s Day?
I think it’s good that there are more and more institutions that think along with trans* women on International Women’s Day and take that for granted. There are just so many different facets of being a woman, so I’m always happy that trans* women are also included. For me it is a great benefit that I can be visible myself and that I can make a contribution to the visibility of trans* people. That’s why I think such days of visibility are extremely important.
Of course, there is still a need for optimization both politically and socially, but overall we are on the right track. Personally, I now feel that I am recognized and accepted for the most part.
What does International Women’s Day mean to you personally?
The day grew out of a women’s rights movement. I have always found it important that everyone can have the same rights. I find it terribly unfair and discriminatory that such hierarchies can be constructed between the sexes.
That’s why I think it’s important and right not only to be happy about the achievements on days like this, but also to get up and remember how things used to be and also perceive this as a reminder.
What is the best thing about being a woman?
So I love shoes (laughs). But seriously, what I love most of all is the ability to have emotions. When I compare that to men, I think women are much more able to be themselves. Men struggle even more with toxic masculinity and role ideals.
Women* too, of course, but among women* you are more honest with yourself. In the women’s world, I also appreciate the empathetic togetherness and the friendly relationships. I have such deep friendships that I never want to give up. This level was not previously possible with men.
Why is it nice and sometimes not so nice to be a woman?
There are many role expectations for women. What annoys me the most is when you don’t meet these for a man. Then men often become derogatory and abusive. What also annoys me is the constant sexual assault and catcalling. I just don’t have any respect for women. It often happens to me, especially as a trans* woman: when men realize that I’m trans*, they think they have a free pass for sexual harassment. We’re still put in this fetish corner. I experience again and again that one is reduced only to body parts or to the sexual – even by other women.
Also, I don’t understand why we still need to educate on the subject of consent these days. I’m also annoyed by the constant fear of walking home alone in the evening – I’ve also been followed in the dark. I don’t want to have this fear, but it’s just there.
But you have to say that the understanding of empathy between women is incredibly great – we understand, help and support each other. This cohesion gives me courage in turn.