The Myth and Realities of Venus Pt. 1

Before we begin this episode, we would like alert you all that this episode is not recommended for Children. It contains strong opinions, language and mature subjects. Listener discretion is advised.

It is important for us to share trigger and content warnings on the topics discussed in this episode including deportation, death, and sex work. If you would like confidential free help or some one to speak with. The national helpline for substance abuse and mental health services is 1-800-662-4357. Additionally, LA’s LGBT Center also has a warm line for those facing violence and assault at 323-860-5806. Please Know that you are not alone.

This week we share a Spanish interview with Koreatown gay elder Venus. It is a honest conversation with Venus about his life migrating from El Salvador to the U.S., and what Los Angeles in the 80s was like for him. Due to the length our interview, we have decided to break it into two parts.

In this first part of our conversation, you will hear Venus talk about his upbringing in his grandmother’s bakery, the relationship with his mother, and opinions on queer identity.

In the snippet to begin the episode, Venus spoke about his home birth. Halfway out during birth, The midwife who delivered Venus thought he was female. This was believed because of his positioning. Once fully out, the midwife realized he was male. From there he says, “There is where the myth of my life begins, I’ve been happy being gay."

We began the first part of our conversation talking about what Venus had for breakfast and how she learned how to make make tamales from her homeland of El Salvador.

Episode produced by Tony Morales

Guests: Venus

Interns - Jane Lee & Jonah Lee

Communications Associate - Janice Yun

Program Coordinator- Dilan Askew

Program Director - Katherine Kim