Monika: How do you see this history reflected in the experiences of early trans activists?
Koko: Our own beloved Sylvia Rivera, who co-founded the Gay Liberation Front, experienced discrimination even among fellow members. Women in the movement often felt uncomfortable referring to Ms. Rivera as “she” and dismissed her by calling her a man who dressed as a woman. Ms. Rivera eventually left the movement because she was continually denied the right to speak publicly. I feel it’s important that all trans folk know our history. We can only know where we’re going if we understand where we came from.
Monika: How do you feel about the way transgender people have been portrayed in films, newspapers, and books up to now?
Koko: Well, for the most part, trans people in the past have been objectified and sensationalized in books, movies, and television shows. We were once the comedic relief in many portrayals. It’s good to see that there are a few serious roles being given to trans people, but I feel we still have a long way to go. We are still viewed as a novelty or as a comical caricature in many cases. I think our lived experiences as trans women need to be affirmed in the media. The more visible we are the better.
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| At Club 57/ P3ligro Dance Party. |
Monika: Are you involved in political work, and do you take part in any advocacy efforts? Do you believe transgender women can create meaningful change in politics?
Koko: Honestly, I think politics in America is horrible! I think that we need to dismantle the current system. I would like to see more representation from trans people on the political front. However, the current political climate in America makes it difficult for any real change to happen.
I do belong to TWOCC (Trans Women of Color Collective) which was founded in response to the murder of Islan Nettles here in New York City in 2013. TWOCC is about creating revolutionary change by uplifting the narratives, leadership, and lived experiences of trans people of color. We were once a national organization and now TWOCC has gone global!
Monika: How would you describe your personal style, and what kinds of clothes make you feel most like yourself? Do you have any favorite colors, designs, or fashion inspirations?
Koko: Well, I love fashion because true fashion is all about art. I have shifted my own attire recently to reflect my lifestyle a little more accurately. I love all the ethnic looks I can put together, pulling from African, Indian, and Native themes. I like to be comfortable for the most part, so I would say I love the bohemian vibe more than anything. Some of my fashion idols are Erykah Badu, India Irie, and (drummer) Cindy Blackman-Santana. I will from time to time pull off an elegant evening gown, but for right now, comfort is the name of the game.
Monika: How important is love in your life at this moment?
Koko: Well, I will answer this honestly and truthfully. About a year and a half ago I suffered a large brain bleed that required emergency brain surgery. Ever since then my love life has taken a back seat.
For me right now a relationship isn’t of high importance. I do think we all need love. We all need to be held and told that we are loved. It’s part of being a human being, a part of the human experience. But I have many people in my life who love me, like friends and family. For me, that’s enough right now.
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| Koko Jones - I'm Free (YouTube). |
Monika: Many transgender women choose to share their stories in memoirs. Have you ever considered writing a book about your own life?
Koko: Well, I’m actually in the process of writing my memoir. I have close to 300 pages written already. Unfortunately, my brain surgery has kept me from continuing the writing process, but I’ve been getting back to it in the past four months or so.
Monika: Are you developing any new creative projects at the moment?
Koko: Besides getting bookings for my band, we are currently starting to write new material for our next album. I’m also starting to investigate the possibility of doing another project with my old band called Tenth World, which was mainly a jazz and world music group. I just signed with awQward Talent, a booking agency that seeks to support and empower trans and queer artists of color. I will be doing all kinds of workshops and performances around the country, including many colleges and universities.
Monika: What advice would you give to transgender girls who are struggling with gender dysphoria?
Koko: I would recommend getting all of the knowledge they can about who they are. I think that all girls or women struggling need to be affirmed and recognized and given a voice. We are living in a society that devalues women. If I can say one thing to them, it would be, “You are priceless, you are enough, just as you are. You are worthy of being heard, and your life matters. Your imperfections do not matter; we are all part of an imperfect world, and it is your imperfections that make you beautiful.”
Monika: Koko, thank you for the interview!
Koko: Thank you! It’s been my pleasure!
Watch other videos of Koko Jones:
END OF PART 2
All the photos: Courtesy of Koko Jones. The main photo by Rebecca Meek.
© 2015 - Monika Kowalska
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