Being Trans in Spain

I have been hearing from friends about the things happening back at home in America and I am frightened to say the least. But I am also thankful. Despite not being able to help my friends and peers back home, I am safe. They have one less person to worry about and I can brighten their day with my tales. Although I have had days where I wish I could be back home advocating and aiding friends I know for now my friends and peers are glad I am enjoying my journey and can be myself.

As a trans, queer, Mexican being in such as accepting place made me cry. I know many IES Abroad students are grateful to study abroad. And I am eternally grateful to not just IES Abroad but everyone that pushed me to study abroad and be able to write this while happily being me. I have made new friends, joined LGBT+ communities, and gone to so many LGBT+ friendly establishments. From bars, to shops and hair establishments, it has been an amazing experience to be somewhere where being LGBT+ is so intertwined with society. As a Spanish friend told me “Gay, lesbian, trans—everyone here is just themselves. Nothing makes anyone identifiable as gay, and no one cares.” It made me appreciate their dismissiveness because as many LGBT+ people know other people think many LGBT+ people’s only characteristic is that they are queer. Here it is the opposite, and it is a breath of fresh air.

Since being here, I have learned more and more about Spain and the history and progression of their LGBT+ laws. From same sex marriage being legalized in 2005 to passing the “Trans Law” where transgender people can change their legal gender on identification documents in 2023. Even the healthcare system has progressed as one trans individual told me about how the healthcare system aided in paying for his top surgery and hormone treatment. 

I chose Salamanca because two peers recommended the program to me. What sold me more was reading another IES Abroad Correspondent’s blog. Their blogs about being accepted and having a wonderful time made me know I was making a good choice. When I arrived and started orientation the IES Abroad staff included information on LGBT+ groups and clubs which helped guide me to the friends I have made since living here. Not only have they been super friendly but also helpful in teaching me new Spanish terms. They even helped get my first gender affirming haircut. I have also had access to resources that I thought would be for Spanish citizens but has also been extended to most of the study abroad students that come to Salamanca. It has been especially helpful getting to live in a residence hall where I can be around other LGBT+ students. 

As study abroad time comes to an end, I hope other LGBT+ students can get the same opportunity I have. I know during these times a break and getting to express themselves is something we all deserve. 

As the motto of my favorite queer bar says, “I will survive!” and I know the LGBT+ community will too.