Redefining Realness

Author's Note



This book is my truth and personal history. I have recalled facts, from events to people, to the best of my ability. When memory failed me, I did not seek answers in imagination. I sought clarity through conversations with those who've shared experiences with me. When my recollection of events varied from theirs, I sided with my memory and used their voice, often direct quotes, to contextualize events.
Many people featured in the book gave me permission to use their names; others I changed or labeled with an initial to protect their privacy, whether they were guilty, innocent, indifferent, or somewhere in between.
As for terminology, I prefer to use trans over transgender or transsexual when identifying myself, although I don't find either offensive.I do not use real or genetic or biological or natural to describe the sex,body, or gender of those who are not trans. Instead, I've used cis, aterm applied to those who are not trans and therefore less likely toexperience the misalignment of their gender identity and assigned sex at birth-a matter we do not control, yet one that continues to frame who is normalized or stigmatized.
Finally, though I highlight some of the shared experiences of trans women and women of color throughout this book, it was not written with the intent of representation. There is no universal women's experience. We all have stories, and this is one personal narrative out of untold thousands, and I am aware of the privilege I hold in telling my story. Visit JanetMock.com for more information, resources, and writings.

Janet Mock is a writer and activist, lauded by the Center for American Progress, Women's Media Center, and the Sylvia Rivera Law Project. A graduate of the University of Hawaii, she has an MA in journalism from New York University and has appeared on NPR, MSNBC's Melissa Harris-Perry, and HBO's The Out List. Find out more at JanetMock.com.

"Far too many assume that Janet Mock's story is primarily about her body. This book is irrefutable evidence that Janet must be understood through her intellect, spirit, and wit. Janet does what only great writers of autobiography accomplish-she tells a story of the self, which turns out to be a reflection of all humanity. You will be changed by this book." Melissa Harris-Perry, Wake Forest University Professor and host of MSNBC's "Melissa Harris-Perry"