Masculinity, just like femininity, exists within us all, and we shouldn't have to deny or hide them, or let it be defined by anyone else but ourselves. We get to play within both of these spaces and create our very own expression of gender that brings us closer to who we truly are.

There is a male, inside of me
A male who longs to touch your flesh
(Respectfully)
Smell your scent (With permission)

Macho as in duality
Masculine energy
Always present within
Challenging the patriarchy
Honoring duality
Otro yo

Before being formed in the womb like a clay mini version of machismo, you knew I was born to consecrate the impossible: living up to your namesake.

In first grade, my teacher told us that Christopher Columbus discovered America. I quickly raised my hand and said, "My dad said that’s not true!"

Through your transition, you showed me that masculinity doesn’t have to be about power and control. Instead, you made it about respect, consent, and kindness.

I was my own male,
hugging females
I didn't want to be protected;
I wanted to protectLike in action movies
[this emotional dependence kills me] 

In life and on stage, gender is a performance, a dance with our own identity, an exploration of self and all we can be.

We had the pleasure of engaging with some of you at the San Antonio Zine Fest’s Puro Zine Party and explored masculinity through fun prompts.