Before we dive into our lovely chat, let me introduce you to the fabulous Amanda Nicole Watson. She’s a 46-year-old transgender woman from California’s Central Valley who somehow manages to juggle a career in healthcare, LGBTQ+ advocacy, and a healthy sense of humor, all while still looking effortlessly cool (plain Jane, she says… we say understated chic). Amanda’s story is anything but boring. She served in the U.S. Navy, worked in mental health, and now dedicates her energy to making the healthcare world more inclusive for everyone, especially transgender folks who’ve spent too long being misunderstood or overlooked. She’s the kind of woman who speaks out, shows up, and stands tall, even if she’s just trying to get through another staff meeting. She started her transition in her thirties, but she knew from the age of five that she was a girl, only the world around her needed a few decades to catch up.
With the help of a few guardian angels in the San Diego LGBTQ+ scene (and a wonderfully supportive family), she found her way toward living authentically, and hasn’t looked back since. Well, except for the occasional fashion misstep. But who hasn’t? Amanda has been a keynote speaker, an award-winner, and yes, she’s even done some political lobbying (imagine her in a suit, making change and probably making a few people sweat). She’s got her eye on completing her Bachelor’s degree, having gender-affirming surgery with the legendary Dr. Bowers, and, who knows, maybe falling in love with a man who can appreciate a strong woman with a soft heart and a sarcastic streak. She's the kind of woman you instantly want to have coffee with, or wine, let’s be honest, and I was so thrilled to sit down with her for this interview. So let’s dive in!
Monika: Hello Amanda! Thank you so much for joining me today. To start us off, how do you feel about sharing your story in an interview like this?
Amanda: Hello Monika, what an honor to be asked for an interview, I feel truly humbled in this moment. I think talking about oneself is always a bit of a challenge. It requires reflection, vulnerability, and honesty, which can be both empowering and intimidating. But I also believe that sharing our stories can inspire others and create deeper connections.
Monika: Let’s begin with a little introduction. How would you describe yourself to someone meeting you for the first time?
Amanda: Gladly. I am a 46-year-old transgender woman living in California’s Central Valley. I work in the healthcare industry. In my line of work, I try to be an outspoken advocate for LGBT-related issues in healthcare, as well as helping to remove the stigma that some try to place on transgender people. Visibility and education are key in creating more inclusive spaces. I’m proud to contribute, even in small ways, to that important progress.
Amanda: Gladly. I am a 46-year-old transgender woman living in California’s Central Valley. I work in the healthcare industry. In my line of work, I try to be an outspoken advocate for LGBT-related issues in healthcare, as well as helping to remove the stigma that some try to place on transgender people. Visibility and education are key in creating more inclusive spaces. I’m proud to contribute, even in small ways, to that important progress.
|
| Pre-transition age 23 and post transition age 33. |
Monika: Could you share a bit about your transition journey? When did it begin for you, and what kind of support, if any, did you receive from your family and friends along the way?
Amanda: My transition did not fully start until I was in my thirties. I had known since the age of five that I was a little girl. However, the world around me did not seem to embrace those same thoughts. Around the age of fifteen, I experienced a traumatic event that made me despise the weaknesses I saw within myself.
Amanda: My transition did not fully start until I was in my thirties. I had known since the age of five that I was a little girl. However, the world around me did not seem to embrace those same thoughts. Around the age of fifteen, I experienced a traumatic event that made me despise the weaknesses I saw within myself.
In addition, I was filled with confusion over my gender and sexuality. It took me years to overcome this, to undo the self-hatred and internalized stereotypes. Shortly after getting out of the U.S. Navy, I started to realize that I was not alone. Friends in the San Diego community helped me through the process, along with a supportive family who have continued to do their best to support and love me. It hasn’t always been easy, but I’m grateful for the journey. Every step, no matter how painful, helped shape the woman I am today.
Monika: When you began your transition, were there any transgender role models who inspired or guided you along the way?
Amanda: At the time of my transition, there were very few role models, at least on a national level. In San Diego, I befriended Miss Major Griffin Gracy, Tracie O'Brien, Evelyn T., Julia L., Keresa K., and an FTM named Travis. Their presence in my community made such a difference in my life. Seeing people live their authentic lives made me proud to be who I was. They gave me hope during moments when I felt uncertain or afraid. I’ll always be grateful for the strength they showed just by being themselves.
Monika: Coming out is often a deeply personal and emotional experience. What were the biggest challenges you faced when sharing your truth with others?
Amanda: Monika, in my mind, there were two hard things. The first was the fear that my family would reject me. Family means everything to me, even if we do not always agree, talk much, or get to spend a lot of time together. Family is important.
Amanda: At the time of my transition, there were very few role models, at least on a national level. In San Diego, I befriended Miss Major Griffin Gracy, Tracie O'Brien, Evelyn T., Julia L., Keresa K., and an FTM named Travis. Their presence in my community made such a difference in my life. Seeing people live their authentic lives made me proud to be who I was. They gave me hope during moments when I felt uncertain or afraid. I’ll always be grateful for the strength they showed just by being themselves.
Monika: Coming out is often a deeply personal and emotional experience. What were the biggest challenges you faced when sharing your truth with others?
Amanda: Monika, in my mind, there were two hard things. The first was the fear that my family would reject me. Family means everything to me, even if we do not always agree, talk much, or get to spend a lot of time together. Family is important.
The second struggle was that I had a good career and a decent salary. At the time, I was working in mental health. I was afraid that my peers would reject me and classify me as having a mental disorder. Much to my surprise, everyone was pretty supportive and helped me through the change.
Looking back, I’m incredibly thankful for that support, it made all the difference. It reminded me that sometimes, the fears we carry are far heavier than the reality we face.
Monika: How do you view the current situation of transgender women in American society? What progress has been made, and what challenges remain?
Amanda: I think transgender people have come a long way in America. We have more rights and opportunities than we have had before. However, we still have a long way to go. Healthcare has improved, and healthcare options are continuing to get better.
Monika: How do you view the current situation of transgender women in American society? What progress has been made, and what challenges remain?
Amanda: I think transgender people have come a long way in America. We have more rights and opportunities than we have had before. However, we still have a long way to go. Healthcare has improved, and healthcare options are continuing to get better.
That said, there is still a great need for education among both employers and healthcare providers.
Many transgender individuals continue to face discrimination and barriers in daily life. It’s essential that society keeps pushing for understanding, acceptance, and equal access to all resources.
|
| 2007 Transgender Day of Empowerment keynote speaker. |
Monika: Do you think transgender rights represent a new frontier in the broader struggle for human rights?
Amanda: I believe that it already is a frontier for human rights. Gender identity and expression go beyond just transgender people. Anyone who does not fit what society deems a “normal” way to express their gender is often subject to ridicule. This struggle challenges deeply rooted norms and calls for a more inclusive understanding of identity. It’s about dignity and respect for everyone, regardless of how they choose to live and express themselves.
Monika: How do you feel about the way transgender stories and characters have been portrayed in films, newspapers, and books so far?
Amanda: Historically, transgender characters have often been portrayed as unsavory figures or as objects of ridicule. This is changing, thanks to people like Laverne Cox and Calpernia Addams. It is my hope that we see more transgender people playing transgender roles. Accurate and respectful representation can help break down harmful stereotypes and educate the public. Seeing authentic stories on screen and in print makes a powerful difference in how society understands us.
Amanda: I believe that it already is a frontier for human rights. Gender identity and expression go beyond just transgender people. Anyone who does not fit what society deems a “normal” way to express their gender is often subject to ridicule. This struggle challenges deeply rooted norms and calls for a more inclusive understanding of identity. It’s about dignity and respect for everyone, regardless of how they choose to live and express themselves.
Monika: How do you feel about the way transgender stories and characters have been portrayed in films, newspapers, and books so far?
Amanda: Historically, transgender characters have often been portrayed as unsavory figures or as objects of ridicule. This is changing, thanks to people like Laverne Cox and Calpernia Addams. It is my hope that we see more transgender people playing transgender roles. Accurate and respectful representation can help break down harmful stereotypes and educate the public. Seeing authentic stories on screen and in print makes a powerful difference in how society understands us.
Monika: The transgender movement is often included within the broader LGBT community. As the last letter in the acronym, do you think the transgender community is able to effectively promote its own cause within the larger LGBT movement?
Amanda: Sometimes it is challenging for transgender issues to get the attention we need, especially when there is still so much work to do within the LGB community. I believe our LGB brothers and sisters are becoming more aware of our issues and are trying to be supportive. Another challenge we face is divisions within our own community. If we are to be successful, we must find common ground on which we can stand together. Unity is our greatest strength, and by supporting one another, we can amplify our voices and create meaningful change.
Monika: In the U.S., are there any transgender activists whose impact or activism you would compare to what Harvey Milk achieved for gay rights in the 1960s and ’70s?
Amanda: There are many transgender people, each doing their part to ensure equality. I think the most important ones, though, are those who get up every day and show their authentic selves. If you look around, you might see them in schools or universities, volunteering, or working. Their presence in the world makes a huge difference that I think too often gets overlooked. Activism isn’t always about public speeches or headlines, sometimes it’s about living openly and honestly. These everyday acts of courage inspire others and slowly shift society toward acceptance.
Monika: Are you involved in politics or advocacy? Have you participated in any lobbying efforts? In your opinion, can transgender women have a meaningful impact in the political arena?
Amanda: Previously, in Baltimore and San Diego, I had been politically involved. This included working on some legislative initiatives. Transgender women and men can definitely make a difference in politics. All it takes is the courage to speak your truth, live your truth, and be proud of who you are. Representation matters, and having transgender voices in politics helps shape policies that affect our community. Change often begins when people decide to stand up and be seen.
Monika: Could you share your thoughts on the role and importance of love in your life, especially as a transgender woman?
Amanda: Love, this is one of the many challenging aspects of being differently gendered. However, having someone to love and someone to love me is incredibly important. Love and relationships are a challenge for anyone; add in the twist of being different, and life becomes even more complex. Still, I believe there is someone for everyone.
Amanda: Sometimes it is challenging for transgender issues to get the attention we need, especially when there is still so much work to do within the LGB community. I believe our LGB brothers and sisters are becoming more aware of our issues and are trying to be supportive. Another challenge we face is divisions within our own community. If we are to be successful, we must find common ground on which we can stand together. Unity is our greatest strength, and by supporting one another, we can amplify our voices and create meaningful change.
Monika: In the U.S., are there any transgender activists whose impact or activism you would compare to what Harvey Milk achieved for gay rights in the 1960s and ’70s?
Amanda: There are many transgender people, each doing their part to ensure equality. I think the most important ones, though, are those who get up every day and show their authentic selves. If you look around, you might see them in schools or universities, volunteering, or working. Their presence in the world makes a huge difference that I think too often gets overlooked. Activism isn’t always about public speeches or headlines, sometimes it’s about living openly and honestly. These everyday acts of courage inspire others and slowly shift society toward acceptance.
Monika: Are you involved in politics or advocacy? Have you participated in any lobbying efforts? In your opinion, can transgender women have a meaningful impact in the political arena?
Amanda: Previously, in Baltimore and San Diego, I had been politically involved. This included working on some legislative initiatives. Transgender women and men can definitely make a difference in politics. All it takes is the courage to speak your truth, live your truth, and be proud of who you are. Representation matters, and having transgender voices in politics helps shape policies that affect our community. Change often begins when people decide to stand up and be seen.
Monika: Could you share your thoughts on the role and importance of love in your life, especially as a transgender woman?
Amanda: Love, this is one of the many challenging aspects of being differently gendered. However, having someone to love and someone to love me is incredibly important. Love and relationships are a challenge for anyone; add in the twist of being different, and life becomes even more complex. Still, I believe there is someone for everyone.
In my life, I have loved many people, and many people have given me love in return. I believe Katharine Hepburn said it best: “Love has nothing to do with what you are expecting to get, only with what you are expecting to give, which is everything.”
Love teaches us patience, understanding, and acceptance, qualities we all need to grow. It also gives us the courage to be our authentic selves, no matter the obstacles.
|
| San Diego Pride community service award 2004. |
Monika: How do you feel about fashion? What types of outfits do you usually prefer, and are there any particular styles, colors, or trends that inspire you?
Amanda: I like fashion, but truthfully, I am more of a plain Jane kind of girl. As I get older, I find that fashion is about expressing my own unique style, not what everyone else thinks looks good. It’s more important for me to feel comfortable and authentic in what I wear. Fashion becomes a way to show who I am without saying a word.
Monika: Many transgender women choose to write memoirs about their journeys. Have you ever considered writing a book about your own experiences?
Amanda: I have thought about writing my story. It is on my bucket list, and I have started some of the groundwork. I want to tell mine differently than others, maybe even in the form of a fictional story based on real-life truths. Writing would be a way to share not just my struggles, but also my hopes and resilience. It’s important for me to create something that can inspire and connect with others on a deeper level.
Monika: What are your current goals, and where do you envision yourself in the next five to seven years?
Amanda: I am working on going back to school to convert my Associate’s degree into a Bachelor’s degree. I plan to complete my GRS within the next year. I would love to get married someday to a great man who can accept me for all my quirks. Beyond that, I hope to build a fulfilling career and create a loving, supportive home. I’m excited about the possibilities that the future holds and the person I’m becoming.
Monika: What advice would you give to transgender girls who are struggling with gender dysphoria?
Amanda: A few things: first, know that you are not alone in this world. If you have to, tell yourself every day, “I am not alone.” Also, understand that there is no “right” way to transition. It is not a race, and there is no finish line to reach. Go at your own pace, the one you are comfortable with. Make friends with others in the transgender community, and if you live in a remote area, use online resources to reach out. If you are thinking about suicide, please know it’s not worth it, reach out for help. Death is a permanent solution to what is almost always a temporary problem. Remember, your feelings are valid, and support is available even when it feels far away. Finding people who truly understand can make all the difference in your journey.
Monika: I believe you mentioned that your GRS is coming up soon. Fingers crossed! How are you feeling about it, and do you feel prepared for everything?
Amanda: Yes, I am close to having my GRS. I have met all the financial requirements to see Dr. Bowers, but I’m having some challenges covering the travel expenses. Still, I’m really looking forward to meeting Dr. Bowers and having the surgery. I’m hopeful that everything will go smoothly and that this step will bring me closer to feeling whole. It’s a big milestone, and I’m trying to stay positive and patient throughout the process.
Monika: Amanda, thank you for the interview!
Amanda: I like fashion, but truthfully, I am more of a plain Jane kind of girl. As I get older, I find that fashion is about expressing my own unique style, not what everyone else thinks looks good. It’s more important for me to feel comfortable and authentic in what I wear. Fashion becomes a way to show who I am without saying a word.
Monika: Many transgender women choose to write memoirs about their journeys. Have you ever considered writing a book about your own experiences?
Amanda: I have thought about writing my story. It is on my bucket list, and I have started some of the groundwork. I want to tell mine differently than others, maybe even in the form of a fictional story based on real-life truths. Writing would be a way to share not just my struggles, but also my hopes and resilience. It’s important for me to create something that can inspire and connect with others on a deeper level.
Monika: What are your current goals, and where do you envision yourself in the next five to seven years?
Amanda: I am working on going back to school to convert my Associate’s degree into a Bachelor’s degree. I plan to complete my GRS within the next year. I would love to get married someday to a great man who can accept me for all my quirks. Beyond that, I hope to build a fulfilling career and create a loving, supportive home. I’m excited about the possibilities that the future holds and the person I’m becoming.
Monika: What advice would you give to transgender girls who are struggling with gender dysphoria?
Amanda: A few things: first, know that you are not alone in this world. If you have to, tell yourself every day, “I am not alone.” Also, understand that there is no “right” way to transition. It is not a race, and there is no finish line to reach. Go at your own pace, the one you are comfortable with. Make friends with others in the transgender community, and if you live in a remote area, use online resources to reach out. If you are thinking about suicide, please know it’s not worth it, reach out for help. Death is a permanent solution to what is almost always a temporary problem. Remember, your feelings are valid, and support is available even when it feels far away. Finding people who truly understand can make all the difference in your journey.
Monika: I believe you mentioned that your GRS is coming up soon. Fingers crossed! How are you feeling about it, and do you feel prepared for everything?
Amanda: Yes, I am close to having my GRS. I have met all the financial requirements to see Dr. Bowers, but I’m having some challenges covering the travel expenses. Still, I’m really looking forward to meeting Dr. Bowers and having the surgery. I’m hopeful that everything will go smoothly and that this step will bring me closer to feeling whole. It’s a big milestone, and I’m trying to stay positive and patient throughout the process.
Monika: Amanda, thank you for the interview!
All the photos: courtesy of Amanda Watson.
© 2014 - Monika Kowalska
No comments:
Post a Comment