Pulsating with raw energy, Gisela Delgadillo’s debut documentary presents its heroine as her most fearless self. Walking the streets of Mexico City in sparkling high heels, Kenya is a tower of strength in a world that is devastatingly cruel to her community. A transgender sex worker and activist is spurred to action after witnessing the brutal murder of her friend Paola at the hands of a client. Despite ample evidence against him, the perpetrator was allowed to go free, showing how the justice system turns a blind eye to violence inflicted on trans women. .
Delgadillo’s film takes an intimate and moving approach to capturing the type of care work required in life and death. When Kenya is not leading protests demanding justice, she is on the phone with Paola’s relatives to ensure that her friend will be buried as a woman. In Kenya, she is also taking care of a wake for another trans woman who died after an illness, so there will be two funerals instead of one. Although ostensibly a force of nature, she carries not only her own trauma, but also the cycles of abuse, addiction, and instability that her transgender sisters have endured.
However, while focusing on Paola’s tragic end, Delgadillo gives little insight into her life or personality. At the same time, the film manages to avoid re-victimization of its subject, thanks in large part to Kenya’s charming presence. Dynamic camera work adds to the impact. While mainstream media may reduce the existence of trans women to a problem of statistics and sensational headlines, Kenya’s tireless efforts are uplifting a community whose voices often go unheard.
Kenya will appear on True Story starting October 27th
