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MANILA, Philippines — US-based Filipina model and activist Geena Rocero announced on Instagram that she is now part of the Playboy family
In a post on Wednesday, June 12, Geena shared an article from Out.
“As the First Trans Asian Pacific Islander Playmate, I feel that I’m making it possible for someone to reach for their biggest dreams just like the people who came before me. I also hope that for anyone who’s been deemed ‘other’ to know that what makes you different, is your power, especially the unapologetic expression of your sexuality, gender and the value of your unique perspective. In this constant political attack on trans lives, I am more inspired to unapologetically proclaim how proud I am of being a trans woman of color and an immigrant.”
Geena also shared some photos from the shoot as the August playmate. In her post, Geena talked about coming out in 2014 and adjusting to life in the US.
“Growing up in a very conservative, Catholic patriarchy, I was made to feel ashamed about my relationship with my body. It took many years to unpack the shame ridden beliefs of my gender and sexuality. Moving to New York City to pursue my modeling career presented a much more difficult cultural context. At that time, there was not an ‘out’ trans identified fashion model so I made the decision to hide my personal journey in order to survive,” she said.
“After years of being a successful model, my depression and the paranoia of being ‘outed’ grew larger every day. The shame that I felt about my transness limited the expression of my full self, my ideas and dreams. I decided to share my story for the first time at @Ted Conference, in order to free myself. This Playboy Playmate honor is another moment that I will never forget.
“I will always know that expressing my unapologetic love for my self, my body, my vulnerability, my journey, my dreams and my hustle is my ultimate power! I remember seeing Caroline Cossey (Tula) on the cover of Playboy, I told myself that one day I want to be like her. To now be a part of the ICONIC Playboy Family is a definite pinch me moment, as I think of that little Trans Filipina who grew up in the little alleys of Manila. Woah!!!! Thank you to all the trans models who paved the way for me.”
In addition to modeling for Playboy, Geena also tied up with the magazine for their Pride campaign. She collaborated with her friend Favianna Rodriguez to design a colorful bunny ears for The Trevor Project, which Geena said hopes to “outlaw conversion therapy everywhere in America.”
Geena is the founder of Gender Proud, an organization which aims to empower and uplift transgender communities around the world.
She appeared in Harper’s Bazaar India in 2016. She also walked for the Bench Fashion show in 2014.
The magazine will be out on June 18 in the US and for digital download. — Rappler.com
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