As many of us find ourselves working from home in our comfiest (and often most questionable) attire, it’s easy to feel weighed down by the monotony of the day-to-day. The chaos of life, uncertainty about the future, and the trials of remote learning can leave us feeling overwhelmed. Yet, if there’s one community that knows how to rise above adversity, it’s the drag world.
The drag community has a rich history of resilience and advocacy, with figures like Marsha P. Johnson, a self-identified drag queen, playing a pivotal role in the Stonewall riots and the fight for LGBTQ rights. Today’s drag queens continue this legacy, demonstrating their tenacity and creativity during these challenging times. Despite the closures of bars, clubs, and other venues that once served as stages for their performances, these artists have transformed their living rooms into vibrant performance spaces. Platforms like Facebook Live, Zoom, and StageIt have allowed them to keep the spirit of drag alive while earning a living.
In Indiana, a restaurant called Fiddleheads has introduced an innovative service dubbed Dragside Pickup, where performers like the fabulous Jayda Pill deliver meals in full drag attire, complete with heels and a mask. This fun initiative has brought smiles to customers, with one stating, “This is for fun. This is to put a smile on your face. This is to show that better days are ahead for all of us.”
Taylor Bright, the Director of Community Engagement at the Rainbow Center of Vermont, performs as the charismatic Nikki Sparkle with her partner, Emoji Delight. She emphasizes the significance of representation within the LGBTQ community, stating that their performances create a welcoming environment for individuals of all identities. “We aim to build inclusive events that extend beyond just LGBTQ+ identities,” she explains.
Moreover, drag queen story hours have gained popularity, providing safe spaces for both children and adults to engage with themes of kindness and acceptance. Even beloved children’s program Sesame Street has featured drag icon Billy Porter, promoting diversity and challenging gender stereotypes. While some critics may oppose these initiatives, the overwhelming support from the community speaks volumes about the love and joy that drag queens spread.
With feelings of isolation reaching new heights, especially among queer and gender-diverse youth, the online transition of story hours has ensured that inclusive spaces remain available. Organizations like Family Equality recently hosted a virtual story hour featuring Nina West from RuPaul’s Drag Race, much to the delight of families seeking connection.
In these trying times, community bonds are more important than ever. To effectively reach and educate residents about available resources during the pandemic, the University of Vermont Medical Center launched a public service announcement titled “COVID is a Drag,” starring local drag queens. This engaging approach not only makes vital information accessible but also fosters a sense of belonging for LGBTQ+ individuals.
As an LGBTQIA+ educator, I share concerns about the potential setbacks in queer rights and the support needed for queer youth amidst the pandemic. Yet, events like virtual Drag Brunches and LGBTQIA+ Trivia hosted by local organizations remind us that progress may be slowed but not halted.
Nikki Sparkle also suggests a fun tip for those working from home: “Dress to impress! It boosts your mood and confidence, and ultimately, it’s about how fabulous you feel.”
Through glittering Zoom performances and creative adaptations, the drag community exemplifies resilience and reminds us that now, more than ever, is the time to shine.
For more insights on creating connections through community, check out our other blog post here. For those interested in resources on pregnancy and home insemination, visit Kindbody and Make A Mom.
Summary
The drag community has showcased remarkable resilience during the pandemic by adapting performances to online platforms and creating inclusive spaces for connection. Initiatives like Dragside Pickup and virtual story hours have brought joy and representation to many during these uncertain times. As we navigate this challenging period, the creativity and spirit of drag queens serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration.