In the words of David Cuka: “Love yourself, and support your colors, regardless of the struggles you face. Everybody has the right to live free from prejudice!”
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David Cuka, a 31-year-old trailblazer from Tirana, Albania, made history as the first openly transgender man going public in the country. Through his work as a photojournalist and documentarian since 2016, David has shed light on marginalized communities, particularly the transgender community, amplifying their voices and advocating for their rights. In this interview he reflects on his unexpected challenges in a society where stereotypes and discrimination still hold significant sway. He joined the UN Women's "Imagine" campaign aiming to raise awareness and challenge cultural stereotypes and gender-based discrimination in Albania and the Western Balkans.
“As a transgender person, I have faced numerous threats from individuals and hurdles, from accessing hormone therapy to seeking protection from law enforcement. I experienced a physical assault in March 2022 due to transphobia and the aggressor wasn’t convicted. After two years of investigation, his case was dismissed. The lack of institutional support and societal acceptance has left me feeling isolated and vulnerable, impacting both my mental and emotional well-being. I couldn't go out, I couldn't even use public transportation, and I still face this challenge today. Every time I am physically assaulted and every time I am bullied and attacked on social networks, it has an emotional impact. In addition, the lack of access to hormone therapy, which is crucial, exacerbates the situation.
In other words, being a transgender person in a patriarchal society like Albania is akin to being nonexistent. I'm still rejected at work precisely for this reason, even though the argument doesn’t come directly. Being an artist is difficult everywhere, but being an artist and transgender at the same time is a hundred times more challenging.
Nonetheless, I use my art to advocate for equality and give visibility to marginalized communities. I try to create a platform for dialogue and understanding, challenging stereotypes and promoting acceptance. My vision for a more inclusive society centers on equal rights and opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their gender identity.
I would like to see transgender individuals in every possible space of life, including the media. By having access to the media and achieving economic independence, they would have more opportunities to communicate and make people more aware of their rights to live free from prejudice. It's crucial to recognize that visibility in the media not only amplifies personal struggles but also fosters understanding and empathy among the wider population. For me going openly in the media has indeed presented its challenges, but it marks a significant step towards personal freedom and liberation. It's so important to acknowledge that having just one piece of information can change our entire lives. What pushes transgenders to come out openly, whether publicly or in their safe spaces, is having some people nearby who will support them on their journey. Therefore my message is: Love yourself, and support your colors, regardless of the struggles you face.
My dream is that one day each of us has equal rights, and we won’t be harmed or persecuted just because we are activists. Violence isn't the only solution. We need love as the only form.”