Pidgeon Pagonis Discusses the Importance of Memoir Writing for Intersex Advocacy

The memoir recounts Pagonis's story as an intersex individual subjected to medical negligence, enduring serious violations against their body and autonomy. Despite these challenges, the narrative expands beyond conflict, celebrating life and the courage to assert “Enough!” against a flawed system. The work combines humor and poignancy as Pagonis embarks on a quest for self-identity.

Pagonis noted that writing the memoir during the COVID-19 pandemic and the heightened racial justice movements instilled a sense of urgency. The personal struggles faced by intersex individuals seemed interconnected with broader social injustices. They emphasized the importance of promoting bodily autonomy and challenging societal norms, which became crucial themes during this transformative period.

Initially motivated to write due to financial loss from cancelled speaking engagements, Pagonis was encouraged by friend Joey Soloway to share their story through a publishing imprint, TOPPLE. Despite initial hesitation about their writing ability, the offer to work with a developmental editor spurred them to engage in the memoir-writing process.

Throughout their narrative, Pagonis highlights the significance of community in their activism, particularly in their efforts against Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago. They successfully campaigned for the hospital to cease surgeries on intersex children and to acknowledge the harm done. Pagonis credits Chicago’s activist community for their education on advocacy and organizing.

In recalling a pivotal moment when confronting the lead surgeon involved in their own medical care, Pagonis expressed lingering anger and devastation over past violations. They described how these emotions enriched the authenticity of their writing and enabled readers to connect deeply with the feelings of frustration and urgency. Humor also played a role in their narrative style, providing emotional relief amid difficult subject matter.

Pagonis hopes readers will feel inspired to advocate for the intersex community and support organizations dedicated to intersex rights. They seek to raise awareness about legislative issues, noting that many anti-trans bills disproportionately affect intersex individuals by exempting surgeries from bans, perpetuating a cycle of harm.

"Nobody Needs to Know: A Memoir" by Pidgeon Pagonis is now available from Topple Books.