Intersex Awareness Day

by Roz

Hi. My name is Roz.

I was born with hypospadias, a unique condition of sex development that is categorized as Intersex. My sex characteristics at birth looked "enough" male to where I was designated male at birth. Growing up, I didn’t feel or look like the other boys, though. And, I knew my “parts” weren’t like what the other boys had either. These kinds of things were not talked about. Because of my condition, I struggled as a young person. I avoided activities like gym class and spaces like restrooms. When I needed to participate in gym, I never felt comfortable changing in front of the boys. When I needed to use the restroom, I couldn’t go unless seated. I felt different.

This condition of mine was left a secret for me to figure out. I didn’t know that my condition was an Intersex condition until my 30s. I found the Intersex Society of North America, online, and saw an illustration of a condition that looked like mine. I learned all that I could and am now ready to help others learn about what it means to be intersex. It’s important that people be educated.

I don’t necessarily think it was “right” or “wrong” to label me as a boy at birth and I would feel the same if I were labeled a girl. I’ve never really felt completely male or female. And, I’m grateful that I wasn’t forced to go through a non-consensual surgery. What I do wish is that I would have known about my condition and known that I was healthy and valid, just like anyone else.

For more information about Intersex people and the history of Intersex Awareness Day, I recommend visiting www.interactadvocates.org.

Happy Intersex Awareness Day!