Wigged Warrior: Enus Taught Mark Normand to Be a Man

Wigged Warrior: Enus Taught Mark Normand to Be a Man

Mark Normand learned a lot about manhood from an unlikely source: a neighbor named Enus who lived a few doors down. Enus, a Black man who performed burlesque and identified as a transvestite, taught Normand everything from how to shave to how to fight, and even how to drive a stick shift. This fascinating dynamic unfolded in the Deep South, shaping Normand’s understanding of toughness and bravery.

A Neighborly Bond in the 90s

Normand described Enus as a crossdresser who would often be seen in a wig and high heels while doing everyday chores like cooking or sweeping. With Normand’s father often away, Enus stepped in to show him the ropes. “He kind of showed me the ropes,” Normand recalled. He remembers Enus teaching him dance moves for a school dance, likening the experience to a sitcom. They became friends, and Enus became a significant figure in Normand’s childhood.

The neighborhood in the 1990s wasn’t always welcoming. Homophobia was more prevalent, and both Normand and Enus faced challenges. Normand admitted he was initially scared to go out in the neighborhood, while Enus couldn’t always go out freely because of his appearance. “You know the homophobia in the 90s was a different world,” Normand explained.

Bike Recovery: A Manliest Moment

A defining moment came when Normand’s bike was stolen. He ran home crying, ready to give up the bike to the older kids who took it. “I’m let them have it. Let them have it. They were tough,” Normand remembered telling Enus.

But Enus had a different plan. “We’re getting it back,” Enus declared. The two jumped into Normand’s dad’s van and drove around the neighborhood. They spotted the kids taking Normand’s bike apart on a stoop. Normand wanted to hide, but Enus told him to wait in the van.

What happened next was unforgettable. Enus, still in his wig, approached the group. They started laughing at him, mocking his appearance. “Who the [censored] is this guy? Look at this [censored],” they jeered. Enus stood firm, stating, “That’s not your bike. I’m taking it back.” When they challenged him, Enus simply replied, “I’ll show you.” He grabbed the bike, and to everyone’s surprise, the kids did nothing. Enus loaded the bike into the van and they drove home.

Normand was stunned by the event. “Amazing. Yeah. It was the manliest thing I’ve ever seen,” he said, adding with a smile, “And he was in high heels.” This act of bravery, performed by a man defying societal norms, deeply impacted Normand.

More Than a Neighbor, a Mentor

Enus continued to be a vital mentor. He taught Normand how to shave, how to talk to women, and generally how to navigate life. “He taught you how to talk to women. He taught you how to ish talk,” Normand explained, highlighting the broad range of life lessons.

Normand’s parents, described as open-minded ex-hippies, were accepting of Enus. This was unusual for the Deep South at the time, where some friends of the family reacted with shock and fear. “My parents were weird, but they were open. They were kind,” Normand stated.

Enus’s courage was undeniable. “Enus was a was a badass cuz you got to think to look like that. Yes. In the ‘9s in Louisiana, you got to be tough,” Normand emphasized. Enus’s willingness to be himself and stand up for what was right, even in a challenging environment, left a lasting impression on Mark Normand.

“It was the manliest thing I’ve ever seen. And he was in high heels.” – Mark Normand

Source: Black Transvestite Taught Mark Normand How To Be A Man I CLUB SHAY SHAY (YouTube)