We Can Do Hard Things 74. ALOK: What makes us beautiful? What makes us free?
23 snips
Mar 1, 2022 
In this enlightening conversation, ALOK, an internationally acclaimed writer and performer, dives into the complexities of trauma, belonging, and identity. They discuss how fear often intertwines with beauty and the destruction of feminine aspects for survival. The dialogue further explores the contrasts between conditional and unconditional love, and how gender identity can lead to spiritual authenticity. ALOK critiques traditional feminism, pushing for a more inclusive movement, and emphasizes the healing power of poetry and self-acceptance.
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Intimate Violence and Transphobia
- Alok discusses the intimate violence they experience, particularly transphobia from women.
- This is especially painful because feminism and the women in their life inspired their self-acceptance.
Beauty and Fear
- Alok explains their complex relationship with beauty, saying they feel most beautiful when most afraid.
- This fear stems from past punishment for self-expression and internalized misogyny.
History and Empowerment
- Erasing history disconnects people from their roots and potential for empowerment.
- Alok emphasizes how the trans movement's ideas are ancient, not new, and have been historically suppressed.
