With all the nastiness spewed by the BBC’s “Snog, Marry, Avoid” and the fabulous kickback of #WhatTranssexualsLookLike, I thought it was high time to highlight the existence of yet another beautiful trans person. So – Jin Xing.
Ok, I’m not going to lie – I might have just a little (enormous) crush. But because, like everyone else in this series of sorts, her beauty doesn’t end or even begin with her appearance. Not even just with her courage and activism. To have so publicly and proudly led the charge for the recognition of trans people in China would be enough for one lifetime. But beyond that, to be recognised as one of the most brilliant and innovative classical/avant-garde dancers in the world? I need to keep putting on hats so that I can take them off.
I really do recommend that everyone, cis or trans or questioning, read her memoir Shanghai Tango . Daring, resolute, honest – a wonderful artist – a mother – a cultural icon. This is what a transsexual looks like.
You’ve got a crush? Get in line, me first…! Jin Xing is just awesome!
I enjoyed this post, and may yet read her memoir… but I’m interested to read Trans Beauty: Parts 1-4. I can’t find them. Can you point me in the right direction?
Just search for ‘trans beauty’ at the stop of the page:
http://cnlester.wordpress.com/2011/10/28/trans-beauty-part-four/
http://cnlester.wordpress.com/2011/08/03/trans-beauty-part-three/
http://cnlester.wordpress.com/2011/04/01/trans-beauty-part-two/
http://cnlester.wordpress.com/2011/03/22/trans-beauty/
This is a really lovely series. I’ve just read through the previous ones too – please do more!