Name: The aesthetics of survival
Uploaded: 2020-06-19T01:14:45Z
Duration: 12 min 28 s
Description: Trans actress, model and writer Hari Nef scrutinizes the concept of passing as a transgender woman and using feminization as a survival tactic. "Hair, makeup and nails keep us strong and safe; does that make us sellouts? Or survivors?" In her talk, Nef boldly investigates trans femininity, asking the question: Why are we shamed for being femme?

Trans actress, model and writer Hari Nef scrutinizes the concept of passing as a transgender woman and using feminization as a survival tactic. "Hair, makeup and nails keep us strong and safe; does that make us sellouts? Or survivors?" In her talk, Nef boldly investigates trans femininity, asking the question: Why are we shamed for being femme?

The aesthetics of survival

Feminine aesthetics like hair, makeup, and nails can be vital tools for safety and acceptance, not just style choices. For trans women, especially those facing limited resources, these choices can mean the difference between life and death. Societal standards often force trans women to alter their appearance just to secure jobs or ride the subway safely. Challenging outdated ideas of feminist respectability opens the door for broader definitions of womanhood and survival.