Ana Paula Lima came to Europe 15 years ago from Brazil. She has since married in the Netherlands and now fights for the interests of transgender people.

In Brazil, life is dangerous for LGBTI people, and especially for transgenders. I was 18 when I started my transition. That’s why my mother helped me to come to Europe. I lived in Italy for eight years but now I’m here because I have a Dutch husband.

I’m an Ambassador for Amsterdam Pride. Last year I organised the first transgender boat during the Canal Pride. We’ll be there again this year with Gender Talent and COC Amsterdam. Once a month I run an empowerment programme for bi-cultural transgenders.

Life in the Netherlands is still difficult for transgenders. Most are living on benefits and 90% of bi-cultural transgender are in prostitution. It’s still a big taboo. There are lots of regulations and there is a gender team of doctors at VU University Amsterdam, but that’s not enough.

I don’t think ‘Homomonument’ is a good name. We’re not just homosexuals, we are LGBTIQ+. The Monument is there for everyone. We still need to work very hard on inclusiveness here in the Netherlands.