Dana de Milo

This summary presents an intimate oral history account provided by Dana de Milo, who speaks about their personal journey and experiences, primarily during the 1960s in Aotearoa New Zealand. Born in Auckland, Dana de Milo ran away from home at the age of 13 to live authentically. The account details encounters with the police, who harassed Dana and others, despite there being no laws against cross-dressing unless it was intended to commit a felonious act. Dana highlights the social climate of the time, the heavy discrimination faced by the LGBTQ+ community, and particularly the challenges of living as one's authentic self.

One pivotal encounter in Dana's youth involved meeting Carmen, a glamorous and slim individual with long dark hair, who worked as an exotic dancer/stripper. Dana, initially unaware of Carmen's identity, felt drawn toward them and eventually followed Carmen to a nightclub where they performed, ultimately being invited inside. Dana's narrative also illustrates the police brutality and systemic challenges faced, including incidents where Dana was frequently harassed, arrested without charge, and subjected to humiliation.

Discussing their family life, Dana expresses mixed emotions about the relationship with their mother, who initially struggled to accept Dana's gender identity. Despite a challenging relationship, there was a moment of reconciliation later in life when Dana understood the protective intent behind their mother's actions. Dana's experiences of running away and seeking acceptance weave together themes of resilience, identity, and the quest for personal freedom.

The account reveals the complexities of finding employment while being authentic to one's gender expression. Jobs were scarce, particularly for those who did not conform to societal gender norms, and employment often came with poor wages and treatment. Dana also discusses relationships with individuals from different countries and backgrounds revolving around the maritime industry, using the term "ship moll" to describe individuals who formed relationships with seamen, not necessarily as prostitutes but as companions who received support in exchange for their company.

The significance of Dana’s gender affirmation surgery in Cairo, Egypt, is a transformative event; this conclusion to a period of seeking authenticity had a profound impact on their sense of completeness and self-actualization. A tribute to the accepting environment in Egypt, this episode contrasts sharply with the resistance and misunderstandings experienced in New Zealand. Dana’s reflections on this life-saving surgery underscore the personal journey towards embracing their true identity, as well as the determination and resilience necessary to achieve this goal.

The narrative underscores the importance of self-ownership and the resolve to live authentically against societal pushback. Dana's history provides insight into the human aspect behind gender diversity and the strife for acceptance and equality within historical and social contexts. Overall, the story told in this oral history captures the struggles, triumphs, and unwavering spirit of an individual navigating life through periods of intolerance and ignorance.

This summary is created using Generative AI. Although it is based on the recording's transcription, it may contain errors or omissions. Click here to learn more about how this summary was created.

Dana de Milo

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