Jenni Olson is a writer, director, curator, filmmaker, and co-founder of PlanetOut.com. She is also director of e-commerce at WolfeVideo.com and author of The Queer Movie Poster Book. www.butch.org
Photo by Cheryl Mazak
1. What is your relationship with the word or identity “butch?”
Butch is a word that helps me speak proudly about a very important aspect of myself. I love that it enables me to embrace so many of my unique and special qualities in a celebratory way and to connect with others who are interested in dialogue about gender difference in society (especially other butches, and the girls who “get” me).
Like the word “queer,” the word “butch” has an outsider quality which reflects the reclamation of an identity that our larger society has historically (and currently) held in contempt. Proudly flying this flag is the first step in my personal manifesto of gender integrity in the face of perennial societal disapproval. It is part of a journey towards wholeness, healing and self-esteem — a journey which becomes somewhat easier as I get older, stronger and smarter. Somewhat.
2. Which words and labels, if any, do you use to describe yourself and your identities?
Butch dyke, lesbian, queer. I am not a “gay woman.” I love that my kids call me Mom! I also proudly claim Q. Allan Brocka’s hilariously honest term from his Logo series, Rick & Steve: The Happiest Gay Couple in All The World: “Versatile Top.” I am also a closeted bisexual.
3. What do you wish you could tell your younger self about sex, sexuality, or gender?
I would start with the currently popular phrase: “It gets better.” And then recite what I just wrote above in Question 1.
Love your closeted bisexual side! Xoxo Susie
:-) I knew you would enjoy that, Susie! Thanks for blazing the path.
Thanks Susie! I knew you would enjoy that!
“Proudly flying this flag is the first step in my personal manifesto of gender integrity in the face of perennial societal disapproval. It is part of a journey towards wholeness, healing and self-esteem — a journey which becomes somewhat easier as I get older, stronger and smarter. Somewhat.”
Yes and yes. I think it can get easier as we get older in part because we have more experience and confidence, but also because we don’t give a shit as much about what other’s think. Getting better as we get older is an excellent goal.