Last year, we learned that “trans” was among the most searched-for terms on the hookup app Grindr. But in this climate, there might be reasons other than fetishization that could account for the surge of trans-related searches on the app.
Just ask the talented influencer @sayessence, who recently gave us an eye-opening report from the trenches.
In a video titled “my new favorite recession indicator,” Essence dishes on some conversations happening on Grindr that fall far outside of the usual parameters.
Culture, unfiltered
Our newsletter will bring you the pulse of queer culture, from the tastemakers to the groundbreakers.
“I cannot make this sh*t up,” she explains, “there are surgeons on Grindr offering the dolls surgeries.”
Now if that’s not proof of an extreme economic downturn headed our way, I don’t know what is. If surgeons can’t make a living at this point, we are all doomed.
But the news isn’t all tragic: in these troubled times, when politicians are lobbying to do away with even adult trans healthcare in certain states, we have to take the gender-affirming care where we can find it. And apparently, the girls are finding it on Grindr.
Related
“You never needed permission. Just let yourself happen,” she said to her past self, bridging the gap across four years of transitioning.
“Send me their profile,” one commenter wrote. “Which area? Town? Names and numbers please 😍,” another commenter asked. “WHATTTTTT???? DO I NEED TO GET BACK ON THERE?!?!” someone else asked, while another poster wrote: “Wwuuuuttt let me get back on the app.” I mean, apparently so! If Grindr is the Freecycle/FB Marketplace/Black market of our current recession/depression, it only makes sense that people are figuring out a barter system on the app. In this economy, anything goes.
That said, please engage with said surgeons wisely and with caution. It’s never ideal to get gender-affirming care under the counter, but again, we’re living in a moment when legal options are dwindling in several states, and sometimes you just have to do what you have to do. Stay safe out there, folks.
Sign up for the INTO newsletter and get your twice-weekly dose of stories that shape the queer experience, culture, and lifestyle.
