--- title: Writer and Performer ALOK on Gender and Violence date: 2021-07-26T03:00:00-04:00 author: OBOS Admin canonical_url: "https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/writer-and-performer-alok-on-gender-and-violence" section: Resources --- [Donate](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/donate) [Health & Sexuality Info](/health-info)# Writer and Performer ALOK on Gender and Violence An interview with writer and performer ALOK about their work to de-gender fashion, gender-based violence, and how they respond to hardship with love instead of fear. > Do you know who you are outside of who you have been told you should be? Acclaimed gender non-conforming writer, performer, and speaker, ALOK, shares their story, and the stories of those who came before them, with an urgency that invites us to step into our power and the power of interdependence. As the creator of the growing movement to degender fashion, ALOK is helping others move beyond the binary into full expression. In a conversation filled with wisdom, historical insight, and radical mercy, ALOK challenges us to value compassion over comprehension, to try harder for each other in the name of love, and reminds us that learning is a sign of being alive. [Read the full article ](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tq3C9R8HNUQ) SOURCE: We Are Man Enough • AUTHOR: ALOK • LAST UPDATED: July 26, 2021 ![alok](data:image/png;base64,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)Eivind Hansen/Wikimedia Commons CC0 ![](/assets/img/monogram.webp)Topics - [ gender-based violence](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/subject-area/gender-based-violence) - [ sexualities, gender, and relationships](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/subject-area/sexualities-gender-relationships) - [ communities of color & experiences of violence](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/themes/communities-of-color-experiences-of-violence) - [ sexual identities & expressions](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/themes/sexual-identities-expressions) - [artistic expression](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/tags/artistic-expression) - [gender expansive](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/tags/gender-expansive) - [healing from abuse](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/tags/healing-from-abuse) - [non-binary](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/tags/non-binary) ![](/assets/img/monogram.webp)### *Why You Can* **Trust Us** - We rigorously evaluate all content - We embrace a reproductive justice framework - We don’t accept ads or sell products - We reject funding from the pharmaceutical industry - We counter misinformation and disinformation - We address the social, political, and economic factors that affect health and sexuality [read more](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/why-you-can-trust-us) Share [](javascript:void();)[](javascript:void();)[](javascript:void();)[](javascript:void();) ##### More to Explore [ResourcesLook ## A Brief History of Periods/Vagina Museum Period Exhibition Print Illustrator Hazel Mead created A Brief History of Periods to teach about menstruation throughout history. ![A Brief History of Periods:Vagina Museum Period Exhibition Print](data:image/png;base64,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) Illustrator Hazel Mead created A Brief History of Periods to teach about menstruation throughout history.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/a-brief-history-of-periods-vagina-museum-period-exhibition-print) [Stories & ConversationsRead ## How Past Sexual Abuse or Violence Affects Relationships How does experiencing violence or sexual abuse affect our intimate relationships? The conversation below is excerpted from an online discussion on relationships, identity, and sexuality. ![Pexels andrea piacquadio ptsd scaled e1661796367968 jpg](data:image/png;base64,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) How does experiencing violence or sexual abuse affect our intimate relationships? The conversation below is excerpted from an online discussion on relationships, identity, and sexuality.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/conversations-how-past-sexual-abuse-or-violence-affects-relationships) [Stories & ConversationsWatch ## Reconnecting with My Spiritual Roots for My Mental Health MF describes their process of returning to their indigenous spiritual roots. Please note: this story is an audio recording only - there is no video. ![An indigenous tent in a forest](data:image/png;base64,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) MF describes their process of returning to their indigenous spiritual roots. Please note: this story is an audio recording only - there is no video.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/my-story-reconnecting-with-my-spiritual-roots-for-my-mental-health) [ResourcesLook ## Beauty in Blood: An Art Exhibit Created with Menstrual Blood Visual artist Jen Lewis creates works of art using blood collected in her menstrual cup during her period, as seen in these beautiful and striking images. ![Beauty in Blood](data:image/png;base64,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) Visual artist Jen Lewis creates works of art using blood collected in her menstrual cup during her period, as seen in these beautiful and striking images.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/beauty-in-blood-an-art-exhibit-created-with-menstrual-blood) [Stories & ConversationsWatch ## Wanting More Empathy and Understanding from Medical Professionals EH speaks from her experience about the opportunities for growth for the healthcare system. They discuss fatness, gender identity, and medical costs. ![Elise](data:image/png;base64,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) EH speaks from her experience about the opportunities for growth for the healthcare system. They discuss fatness, gender identity, and medical costs.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/my-story-wanting-more-empathy-and-understanding-from-medical-professionals) [Stories & ConversationsWatch ## Using Different Resources to Inform Myself on Becoming Pregnant EH discusses resources they found helpful as a fat, non-binary person attempting to get pregnant. ![Elise](data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACAAAAAgCAIAAAD8GO2jAAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAAE2klEQVRIiWVW0Y4kuQ0jac/uYYHk+/McID+Xe0gwe9vTVZbIPLiqZxYx3Ia7yhaLEiWb//jXP5GkO7W8Th8ffj768aseP+vxXr/e1+N9fbyv83FWrczSH2v+6Lcffvvhb98xv3NOjTmkIQ5gIAMRrITIxJdGgL/NeE24fySwJ19eX+O1c4+57QAbgATzuYQECJJ73E2kCL3+hASQ16L7C67993wSDLIN52Ua24ruPqQhQdmeUMiQpj5NX+3mHJEmOF+mwQt4L9/fKEkaQ8OaFh1ZIxrhCEUyF5+vACRCmhGBifDluo0tEFSoUJKGRsb0mA6dYc5oRIJkKRRFXkQpQgAZhWSEzO3IgMztwL2DzLauEU2PN0eJwv1kQCIVChR1AWx/CdnWt4oI5A7AzQAEtXs0MmbcCRMZM2NAl91N9AqYtgwgRIgAIhMBstXwEhS1rUvRGGNkjPT0UMLgYhANUhaxBUaKGhuAEXAzyK3YECDzGeiNAY1oZjjoWMa0RqRsEtSOs7QZcBACBkNEwA0QAGA+E0a8vBSOKxKhQXOYihQSoq9lm4V2pogRKYQXQIAEye9JSJHQdpSGhsMBGLJkSlSw48QbgCIlDFKISAIzDhAYNOBsSX2VbEhRkRQI0FbPlSiXa7dP9ZnuNw9gxgYAGzESOpvTi8feaVI7XfO1KlypC2zx4GV98GZghwhsdGAjgc3tsbzK111xcs+uevii+0oifGVAYqY7CG24YaM3RuB8BuZryxbD9QVEkhDhlVwgdpAvpOluILRpsy0b3RdYnC9tm9qzCzvez/nq2HHCJ0B3IWBMl7rSpW72RSi2rzF24gRIbDh0YtiQkat8v8IjcCPNrgtArnSpOt3sYje60+1ue3e34cDcrrzqBMwYEJgwvJWLPc5eCwBjbwa1WMUudqEqXe52dXd3u41OmnBoyK2QNF7JxIvKCwOzaiFhLLe71Eu1uBaqUJWqVHVX1ap2mxUV0WKHBkFIiBEHFqULI1u4nLVOJojl5gVwshbWiTpTy3V6nVVV7WUURjEt9JViO/cCGR4IkY2BHZVZ5wlcDNilPlkn6+Q6sU6vM+vs3wEW3eMSkBgoHs5OVes+r3clwax1bBfRLRdrqQ+uAxfA4XX0OrpqdZe5MIpvPey3gBkMlNEzMkbDujCu1Mdc5/OWacuLvVQn1sH1zHpmPX1+1Dq61g0wS9WzAxMOw2F3Z8y0oMEQvotKMOt8bhXxjgHrwDqwnlgfPj98ftT6qHVU9zKLb6Xv7k4sGrLGm4fTjXHduChxH2LBXOexY/B/AB85P3z+8vlXne+1HquwjOKs8Td/K6IlQx7TaccjnvB9XIYMYM5az7tUNF07wlhPrEeOXz5/9vFnHVknamEZS9Vv/3FOsuewxk7Ejt/ghgcsXqEGwVnrSQAXwGKdrAPnM+cj588+/t1P1BPriXVgNWqivyP5RRWGx9vOcceO53UvvW4UBDG7zpeK2It1op5Yj6y/cv7ZB/oD64H1E+uJEyig/44I4+3g239nw404t0yvuy+v8srpOneQ4WIv9ok6UM/Uu1f6RB+on6gnFlDAAvod+AZ8x+jD/StWXidIgniTIIhw2k0kMbvQlV7wgo/0wwUv9AE/0YCBvjtP9K7oeSR/IG/3VQjIuM6NEOT/AOZkn/9DFIacAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC) EH discusses resources they found helpful as a fat, non-binary person attempting to get pregnant.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/my-story-using-different-resources-to-inform-myself-on-becoming-pregnant) [Stories & ConversationsWatch ## Becoming Pregnant as a Nonbinary Person EH discusses their experience of approaching pregnancy and parenthood as a non-binary person, noting how isolating it can feel at times. ![Elise](data:image/png;base64,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) EH discusses their experience of approaching pregnancy and parenthood as a non-binary person, noting how isolating it can feel at times.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/my-story-becoming-pregnant-as-a-nonbinary-person) [ResourcesRead ## Comic Book: Teen Dating Violence This comic book tells the story of Neela and Chris, a high school couple. The book illustrates what intimate partner violence can look like in a teenage relationship. ![Screenshot 2023-03-08 at 12.49.17 PM](data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACAAAAAgCAIAAAD8GO2jAAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAACF0lEQVRIiY1WW3LEMAgzju9/ur3NbqAfahVZuNPykWG8a4mHIInX6zXGiAg84cDqx+77zsz7vj+fzy1WVZnJixEx55xzXtcFPyLm+IeRVekZk54wRJ4vw6oqg6sqTS52s+ztPCJWx+3h88KcMzPhVBWeuGuG+kTEUmj6jD0i8AQWHe2QxjHFngwUyGJXSsbLP6DDmgGhtwx6A4/t1fC1dFYiDX/rQUdUpjkfvSmW8TF2z0Db0GkiIjM7R++BQnuJFJFZ84TB4hxaOhIoxxjDCY6t1kKR5qgiszMBRdWbzF8zk2LtvQkdNCaLEmtc0UaaJ9d18W/6Z4WGszQoKp03tT7Kxyz7ajGyLQMMjpb7T/kyOfuJvmfA9YtzVefx/m/GyJ4MVI5MBZQ2Aep3jRjT6i2t3YCu8rDKKHSX1mJNxhgQn8arwR7P+2a1+dgIMIF1Mr4AVCHHjI1sIyjZ+GYUsdXKCFADdrGqVu3DwoYDUQ03uWqMAND5Y6Rcqv2xj7txYHpjfwtp7GZngiFzSI0yAzqskhLw60Y5Hpl2Gr7fjQA29nlUAv1qejKoX7ajEnDHgZsXFZcG1qfJ5qj82QAkgQ83JQAcvvv4fAhqHxDl0C0LDjxVSCCAfcS+CbRElJoS6MJRR98fhv5+v1mlxWuKrtI67mdqyTSqJQLHNmg2jUDUHU6zqtoEMKEtAwVV394Q1iQ96bOWmV/oAD9jBMoxGgAAAABJRU5ErkJggg==) This comic book tells the story of Neela and Chris, a high school couple. The book illustrates what intimate partner violence can look like in a teenage relationship.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/comic-book-teen-dating-violence)