An excerpt from _Matthusen's interrogation protocol

During an interrogation of the transfeminine teacher _Matthusen on June 21, 1943, the Gestapo threatened her with “the most severe police measures” and imprisonment in a concentration camp if she were caught again wearing clothing with feminine connotations. She had previously stated the following on record:

“I would also like to add that I also have a strong desire to adorn myself as a woman with earrings, necklaces and bracelets. I also liked painting my fingernails like a woman. In summary, I can only explain that my innermost wish has always been to live as a woman rather than as a man.”

During interrogations, warnings and threats were made to people perceived to be gender nonconforming. They were threatened with punishment and imprisonment in concentration camps to make them afraid to live openly according to their identity. By using threats, officials also attempted to elicit statements from them, which could be used against them during investigations and in court.