Quote from: Gabrielle_22 on August 15, 2014, 05:53:41 PM
My worry about being clocked is primarily to do with threats of violence. I am not yet able to present as female when I am back at home in the Caribbean, and the story of someone like Dwayne Jones in Jamaica is the kind of thing that resonates with and terrifies me. While I am in a somewhat liberal little patch of Florida when I am not at home, I still get concerned if I see someone eyeing me a lot or following me around a bit. I've been fortunate so far; my biggest problems have been with employees in stores following me around more than they did other customers, including into the women's dressing area.
Gabby,
Yes. Definitely threats of violence do matter. Once I alone ran for exercise along the streets in a downtown Russian city, and a group of men shouted at me, making me think that this is not a safe place. Also, I was once assaulted by a man for rape in the U.S., and I thought that I would be killed once he recognized my sex. He just ran away.
Fortunately, here no such threat. Moreover, I usually go out with my friends.
Several years ago, I was once clocked by a young sales woman in a beauty shop, and she recklessly shouted like "I thought you are a woman, but you are actually a man!". I was a little bit upset, but this sometimes happens. The the bottom line is that my gender identity has no business with them. Even in this case, nowadays I just smile at them, exchanging some jokes.
My close women praise my fashion and beauty. Some of them say they would not dare to walk with me while wearing mini-skirt. Men say that my fashion sense is far better than most women here, urging other women to take care of their appearance more. All of them know my family and background very well.
Depending on the culture, you may choose the best option for your passing. Passing more requires more restriction in the freedom of your daily life and socialization. I prefer freedom.
barbie~~