Name: Gaysha Starr
Location: Seattle, WA
How has your understanding of gender evolved over time, and what experiences have influenced that journey?
Growing up in the 70s and 80s, I wasn’t exposed to the vocabulary or concepts surrounding LGBTQ identities. Gender and sexual orientation were often conflated and seen as one and the same. When I came out in 1993 and began performing in drag, I became more aware of trans women—though at the time, they were often relegated to roles as escorts, entertainers, or part of the underground scene. The gay rights movement was more visible then, and in many ways, it had to come first to open the doors for the rest of us.
The most significant shift in transgender visibility came around 2013, when public figures like Laverne Cox, Janet Mock, and Geena Rocero emerged and shared their stories. Over the last decade, particularly in response to the surge of anti-transgender legislation, it feels like a resurgence of the 1990s gay movement—our community once again fighting just to exist and be recognized.
In your work or leadership role, how do you create space for people of all identities to feel seen and valued?
I’m fortunate to work in an inclusive environment where I was able to transition publicly. Today, other transgender and non-binary employees also work for the company, and I do my best to help create a space where identity can be acknowledged but not be a limitation. Ultimately, it’s about skill, performance, and authenticity.
What do you wish more people understood about the distinction between gender identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation?
Janet Mock put it best in her breakthrough memoir Redefining Realness: “Who I go to bed as is my gender identity. Who I go to bed with is my sexual orientation.”
It’s entirely possible for a transgender person to be in a relationship with someone of the same gender identity, and it’s far more common than many realize.
Can you share a time when you challenged traditional societal norms—either your own or someone else’s—and what the outcome was?
I live at the intersection of many identities: Gen X, Filipina, immigrant, transgender woman, drag queen, activist, Multi-Store Director, pet lover, and homeowner.
Society often tries to pigeonhole us—seeing us as capable in only one or two areas. But I now see people of all identities breaking those boundaries simply by existing and excelling in their fields. I’m proud to be part of that movement.
How do intersectional identities (like race, class, disability, etc.) shape your experience and how others perceive you?
I try to support as many of my communities as I can. Being actively involved is important to me, and I hope my presence in leadership roles inspires others to push past perceived limitations. Seeing someone like me succeed can help others realize that, with hard work, patience, and some sacrifice, almost anything is possible.
