Interview with Verónica, Summer 2024
Who is your hero?
my aunt (father’s sister) because she is sure of herself
What is your biggest fear?
being trapped/confined- physically or intellectually
What really makes you angry?
colonialism and capitalism
What is your favorite book to read or favorite author?
my current favorite is Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. Le Guin, but I also enjoy novels by Sarah Waters
What is your opinion of ghosts and phantoms?
I believe in them. My family is Puerto Rican and we have a history and connection with espiritismo, which is home and community based. I also have aunts and cousins with a Catholic background, so spirituality is varied but present in our family.
Do you have a favorite song, band or musician currently?
Villano Antillao, who is a Puerto Rican transwoman rapper
How would your friends describe you?
caring, trustworthy, intelligent, and judgey
What is the one item you possess that you would run into a burning building to save?
pictures and a shirt from my paternal grandmother
What's the most daring thing you've ever done?
leaving Puerto Rico and coming out
What's your favorite family recipe?
my grandmother’s arroz con dolce
What's your favorite family tradition?
Christmas Eve at my godmother’s house - my cousins get together and play traditional Puerto Rican music
What is your favorite childhood memory?
when I heard that my mom was pregnant with my younger sister
Do you collect anything?
Vinyl
What three things do you think of the most each day?
my sister, food, and my career/tenure
If you had to describe yourself as an animal, which one would it be?
raven or squid
What is a character trait you would like to change about yourself and why?
self-doubt
What is the biggest obstacle you currently face?
not being able to return home (social services and health care not available for trans individuals)
What is your favorite place in the world, and why?
Caribbean, feeling of home