Monika: The transgender cause is usually manifested together with the other LGBT communities. Being the last letter in this abbreviation, is the transgender community able to promote its own cause within the LGBT group?
Ugla: There have definitely been some issues with combining these, and even in the last few years there have been letters coming behind the “T”, such as I, A, P, and Q. I think that all groups behind LG have had difficult times being included into this movement. Here in Iceland, we have made considerate progress in the last few years when it comes down to including more letters, but we definitely have a long way to go.
Personally, I think these groups should work together because so many of the issues we face are based on the same norms, the same values, and the same prejudice. It is often difficult, but I think with time, hard work, and awareness raising, transpeople can definitely raise their cause within the movements.
Monika: Is there anyone in the Scandinavian transgender society whose actions could be compared to what Harvey Milk was doing in the USA in the 60s and 70s for the gay activism?
Ugla: There are definitely a lot of strong characters and people who have made their mark on history for transpeople. I believe that transpeople from the Nordic Countries have long been involved in Transgender Europe for example, who are doing amazing work. I think it is harder to pinpoint just one single person though. I believe it was the work of many strong individuals.
Monika: Are you active in politics? Do you participate in any lobbying campaigns? Do you think transgender women can make a difference in politics?
Ugla: I would not say that I am active when it comes down to political parties and things like that, but I am very active when it comes to pushing for legal changes and work for transgender people. I am for example a part of a committee that was established by the Ministry of Welfare in Iceland, which is to look into and make amendments and new suggestions in relation to laws that have to do with LGBTQ people.
I think that everyone can make a difference in politics, and I think the more diverse group of people we have, the better. So transwomen can definitely make a difference in politics, and I know some already have in many places in the world.
Monika: Could you tell me about the importance of love in your life?
Ugla: I don’t often talk about love and I have quite frankly kept these issues very private in media and when during interviews. But of course, love is very important to me as I think it is to most people. I have an amazing partner who supports me and who I am 100%. I have a great family and friends whom I love very much too.
It is definitely harder to find love as a transperson, often due to people’s prejudice and preconceptions. But I have been very lucky and privileged to have someone by my side.
Monika: Many transgender ladies write their memoirs. Have you ever thought about writing such a book yourself?
Ugla: I actually have. I have actually started writing a bit, and I probably will publish it one day. I just feel like at the age of 23 I am a bit young to do that, no?
Monika: Are you working on any new projects now?
Ugla: I am always working on several projects. I have a lot of international collaboration and we have some things coming up. Currently, I am working on making some material about trans issues, changing definitions in the Icelandic dictionaries, an Icelandic queer podcast, some songs with a newly formed band, and many other things! Stay tuned.
Monika: What would you recommend to all transgender girls struggling with gender dysphoria?
Ugla: Oof. There are a lot of things I could say. And I know most of this will probably sound very cheesy or tacky: but just be yourselves. Don’t try too hard to fit into some box or fulfill some ridiculous standard that others make. You’re not doing this for someone else, you’re doing this for yourself, and you are beautiful as you are. Be you, for you. If that means having hormones, gender reassignment surgeries, and other surgeries, go for it. Just strive to be you.
Don’t let others guide you or tell you what to do or what not to do. Find other transpeople who are also struggling. Draw strength from each other. Support each other. Create support groups, create discussion groups. Nothing is as bad as being alone, so find each other. Search for others, and yourself. Be you.
Monika: Ugla, thank you for the interview!
All the photos: courtesy of Ugla Stefanía Jónsdóttir.
© 2014 - Monika Kowalska
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