Nigerian
transgender, model, singer, beauty queen and LGBT activist Miss Iris
Sahhara Henson granted an interview to The Heroines where she talked
about her sex change, the Nigeria’s anti-gay bill and her career. On
whether she had a transgender role model Sahhara says…
“Not
really, I transitioned quite late. I had fellow sisters in the club
scene that helped me with information. I was able to do more research
and educate myself on my confusions online too. Learning more about
April Ashley and all the other trans veterans helped to normalize my
journey into womanhood.”
“Being
rejected by family, friends and society. Islam and Christian religion
controls the society in Nigeria. Most Nigerians have radical views on
all aspect of human life due to the influence of American evangelical
Christians and Sharia Law. Many people have negative misconception and
the wrong information when it comes to gender variances.”
She also talked about the present situation of transgender women in the British and Nigerian societies…
“The
United Kingdom has come a long way when it come to human rights and
transgender rights; it is a huge contrast to Nigeria, in the UK there
are professional healthcare advisers and doctors who treat gender
disorders and confusions with great understanding. I have the freedom to
achieve like any other British citizen.
In
Nigeria, on the other hand, people like me are non-existent, gay people
are driven underground by hate and misunderstanding. Most gay men are
married to women in fear of persecution and murder. Nigeria is a hundred
years behind the western world; the laws are made based on religious
beliefs.
The
government recently passed an Anti-LGBT law, dishing out 14 years
imprisonment for LGBT people; 11 years for friends, family and people
who associate with LGBT. It is very sad, what Africa need is education
and the separation of government from religion.”
She also reveals her plan to release an album…
“I
began singing and writing songs at the age of twelve in Nigeria. I
found solace in music through the church due to a rather
troubled/confused childhood because of the identity I was assigned at
birth. So, when I moved to the United Kingdom” to live my life openly, I
decided to pursue my music career a bit farther. I have a singing
residency in a lovely venue in London for the past 10 years. Music is my
life, being creative in writing and producing gives me joy and
satisfaction. I have written and produced over fifty songs, I am
planning to release an album in the future.
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