Mrs Benn

I have travelled a little in the course of my transgendered experiences, and met t-folk from several continents. Always it is remarkable to discover how much we share in common, despite the superficial differences in our lives. The path appears never to be without pain, but some societies appear to do better than others at grappling with the challenge. The Guardian this week published a fascinating piece about the Muxes (transgendered people) of the Oaxaca region of Mexico. There is a charming accompanying film, which if not accessible via the link above can be reached through YouTube. While the transwomen of Muxes in this film have struggled to understand and define their own identities, it is heart-warming to see the degree of acceptance that they have experienced in a society that lacks many of the privileges we enjoy in Western Europe. Their courage is remarkable, but what comes through powerfully is the strength of the acceptance they find in their mothers – there is no force of nature so powerful as a mother’s love.