Drag has become an integral part of contemporary pop culture, captivating audiences around the world with its mesmerising performances, larger-than-life personalities, and unapologetic celebration of individuality.
More than that, drag is an important avenue of self-expression for much of the LGBTQIA+ community. With many emphasising how discovering and exploring drag saved their life, it's baffling to me that this joyous expression of life and love that seems to have saved so many people is being so actively attacked by todays right-winged governments.
Today, I invite you to explore with me not only cultural significance of drag and how it has transformed and influenced various aspects of our culture over the years, but also as we dive into the various topics surrounding drag, I urge you to consider the significant impact that anti-drag laws can have on the current and future LGBTQIA+ community.
For now, let's start with the basics...
What is Drag?
Drag is a form of performance art where individuals, typically known as drag queens or drag kings, dress in clothing and adopt exaggerated gendered characteristics that are typically associated with the opposite sex. Drag performers often use makeup, wigs, costumes, and accessories to transform their appearance and create larger-than-life personas on stage or in various entertainment settings.
The term "drag" is believed to have originated from the phrase "dressed as a girl" or "DRAG" in theatrical slang. Drag performances can encompass a wide range of styles, from glamorous and polished to comedic and avant-garde. While drag is often associated with LGBTQIA+ communities, people of all gender identities and sexual orientations can participate in and enjoy drag.
Beyond entertainment, drag has also become a platform for activism and social commentary. Drag performers often use their visibility and art to advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights, challenge gender stereotypes, and address social issues.
The History of Drag
The history of drag dates back centuries and has evolved alongside changes in society, gender norms, and theatrical traditions. While it is challenging to trace its exact origins, drag can be seen throughout history in various cultures and forms of performance.
Drag performances have been documented in ancient civilisations such as ancient Greece and Rome. In Greek theatre, men would often portray female characters, wearing masks and costumes to embody women's roles. Similarly, in the traditional Japanese theatre form Kabuki, all roles were historically played by men, including female characters.
During the Renaissance period in Europe, men playing female roles continued in theatre due to societal norms and restrictions on women's participation in the performing arts.
In the 19th century, drag performances gained popularity in music hall theatres, vaudeville shows, and burlesque. Male performers would dress as women, often engaging in comedy, singing, and dancing. These performances were highly theatrical, comedic, and sometimes served as social commentary.
Of course, the LGBTQIA+ also community has played a significant role in the development of contemporary drag. In the early 20th century, drag balls and underground queer spaces became prevalent, providing platforms for individuals to express themselves and challenge societal norms surrounding gender and sexuality. These spaces allowed for the emergence of drag queens and drag kings as prominent figures within LGBTQIA+ communities.
The Stonewall Riots in 1969, considered a catalyst for the modern LGBTQIA+ rights movement, also had a profound impact on the visibility and acceptance of drag. Drag queens played pivotal roles in the resistance against police violence and discrimination. Their activism and resilience helped elevate drag as a form of resistance and empowerment within the LGBTQIA+ community.
Today, what started as a form of entertainment within theatre and LGBTQIA+ bars and clubs has now become a global phenomenon, impacting music, fashion, television, and beyond.
Drag Myths and Misconceptions
There are several myths and misconceptions surrounding drag, many of which are directly driving the anti-drag laws we're seeing today. Here are some most common ones:
Drag is the same as being transgender
One common misconception is that all drag performers are transgender or that being a drag performer means identifying as a different gender. In reality, drag is a form of performance and self-expression that does not necessarily relate to an individual's gender identity. Drag performers may identify as cisgender, transgender, or non-binary. We'll go more into this a bit later...
Drag is solely about imitating women
While drag queens often embody exaggerated femininity and perform in ways traditionally associated with women, drag is not limited to imitating women. Drag kings, for example, perform in a way that plays with masculinity and can challenge gender norms. Drag encompasses a spectrum of gender expressions and styles.
Drag is offensive or disrespectful
Some people mistakenly view drag as mocking or disrespectful towards gender identities. However, drag is an art form that celebrates and explores gender in a playful and creative way. Drag performers often aim to entertain, empower, and challenge societal norms, rather than belittle or undermine gender identities.
Drag is only for LGBTQIA+ individuals
While drag has its more modern roots in LGBTQIA+ communities and has been an important form of self-expression for queer individuals, anyone can participate in and enjoy drag. Drag is an inclusive art form that welcomes performers and audiences from diverse backgrounds and orientations.
Drag is easy or not a serious art form
Drag requires charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent (thanks Mama Ru!). It involves intricate makeup skills, choreography, lip-syncing or live singing abilities, and stage presence. Drag performers invest time, effort, and resources into perfecting their craft, and it should be considered a serious art form that demands skill and artistic vision.
Drag is solely about appearance
While drag often involves elaborate costumes, makeup, and styling, it is not solely focused on physical appearance. Drag performances can incorporate storytelling, political commentary, and emotional depth. Drag queens and drag kings often use their performances to convey messages, challenge stereotypes, and connect with audiences on a deeper level.
Transgender vs. Drag
As I said above, being transgender and participating in drag are two separate things. But I want to touch on this element a little more because many of the anti-drag laws being passed around the world right now seem to be inexplicit in the difference between the two. Laws that ban individuals from being in public spaces while 'imitating' the opposite sex open up the potential for transgender individuals to be targeted and prosecuted. I think this video of ICONIC drag queen BenDeLaCreme on The Daily Show explains it best...
While drag and transgender identities may overlap in certain cases, it is important to recognise that they are distinct. So, lets highlight some of the core differences between drag and transgender here...
Drag:
Performance Art: Drag is primarily a form of performance art where individuals, often cisgender men, dress in exaggerated, stylized clothing and adopt exaggerated gender characteristics for entertainment purposes. Drag performers may use makeup, costumes, and persona to create a stage character.
Non-Permanent Identity: Drag is typically a temporary persona that is assumed during performances or specific events. Drag performers often have their own given names and pronouns outside of their drag persona.
Often Cisgender Individuals: While people of any gender identity can participate in drag, it is commonly associated with cisgender individuals, especially cisgender gay men. However, there are also drag queens who identify as transgender or non-binary.
Expression of Gender Performance: Drag allows individuals to play with gender roles, expectations, and stereotypes. It can be a way to explore and challenge societal norms surrounding gender and create art through performance.
Transgender:
Gender Identity: Being transgender refers to an individual whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth. It is an innate sense of self that may not align with societal expectations or the gender assigned based on physical characteristics at birth.
Personal Identity: Being transgender is an integral part of an individual's personal identity and is not limited to performance or specific events. Transgender individuals often experience a deep and persistent discomfort with their assigned gender and may pursue social, medical, or legal transition to align their physical appearance and identity with their true gender.
Diversity of Identities: Transgender is an umbrella term that encompasses various gender identities, including transgender women (assigned male at birth, identify as women), transgender men (assigned female at birth, identify as men), non-binary individuals (who do not exclusively identify as male or female), and others.
Personal Experience and Transition: Being transgender involves a personal journey of self-discovery, self-acceptance, and, for some, transitioning to live in alignment with their gender identity. Transition may include social, medical, and legal aspects such as hormone therapy, surgery, and name/gender marker changes.
Why is drag important?
Drag is an art form that transcends entertainment, serving as a powerful tool for self-expression, visibility, empowerment, and social change. It's incredibly important for many people for so many different reasons, but here are some of the most common ones...
Self-Expression and Identity: Drag allows individuals to explore and express their gender identity and artistic creativity. For many drag performers, it serves as a form of self-discovery and a means to embrace and celebrate their authentic selves. Drag provides a platform to challenge traditional gender roles and norms, allowing performers to embody different facets of their identity and present themselves in unique and empowering ways.
Visibility and Representation: Drag plays a vital role in increasing visibility and representation for the LGBTQIA+ community. Drag performers often become ambassadors and advocates for LGBTQIA+ rights, using their platforms to educate, inspire, and promote acceptance. Through their performances and presence, they create spaces where queer individuals feel seen, heard, and celebrated.
Entertainment and Artistry: Drag is an art form that blends elements of theater, fashion, makeup, dance, and comedy. Drag performances captivate audiences with their charisma, talent, and creativity. Drag queens and kings craft elaborate personas, create stunning costumes, and showcase impressive lip-syncing, dancing, and singing skills. The entertainment value of drag not only brings joy and laughter but also challenges conventional notions of beauty and performance.
Community Building: Drag fosters a sense of community and belonging. Drag shows and events provide safe and inclusive spaces where individuals can come together, celebrate diversity, and support one another. The drag community offers a network of support, mentorship, and camaraderie, creating a space for personal growth and empowerment.
Social and Political Commentary: Drag has a long history of engaging with social and political issues. Drag performances often incorporate satire, humor, and commentary to address topics such as gender, sexuality, discrimination, and inequality. Drag queens and kings have used their platforms to raise awareness about important issues, challenge stereotypes, and advocate for social change.
Empowerment and Confidence: Drag can be a transformative experience for both performers and audiences. For performers, drag allows them to tap into their inner strength, boost their confidence, and embrace their individuality. For audiences, drag shows can be empowering and affirming, providing a space to celebrate diversity and challenge societal norms.
The presence of drag queens is also essential for the well-being and development of LGBTQIA+ youth. Their visibility and representation provide a source of inspiration, acceptance, and empowerment. Ensuring LGBTQIA+ youth access to the drag community allows for:
Representation and Visibility: Seeing drag queens in various forms of media, such as television shows, movies, or live performances, provides LGBTQIA+ youth with positive representation and visibility. It helps them recognise that there are individuals who share similar identities and experiences, which can be empowering and validating. Representation helps combat feelings of isolation and fosters a sense of belonging within the LGBTQIA+ community.
Self-Acceptance and Identity Exploration: Drag queens often embody confidence, self-expression, and the celebration of individuality. By witnessing drag performances, LGBTQIA+ youth can be inspired to embrace their own unique identities and explore different facets of their personality. Drag queens serve as role models, showcasing the beauty and strength in being true to oneself, regardless of societal expectations.
Breaking Gender Norms: Drag challenges traditional gender norms and stereotypes. It demonstrates that gender is fluid and can be performed in a multitude of ways. For LGBTQIA+ youth who may be questioning their own gender identity or expression, witnessing drag queens can help them understand and accept their own unique experiences. Drag queens can serve as a source of inspiration and empowerment for those seeking to navigate and embrace their gender identity.
Community Support and Acceptance: Drag queens often engage with the LGBTQIA+ community and advocate for its rights and well-being. Their performances and involvement in community events create safe spaces where LGBTQIA+ youth can find support, acceptance, and a sense of belonging. Drag shows and events can serve as environments free from judgment, allowing LGBTQIA+ youth to connect with peers and mentors who can provide guidance and understanding.
Education and Empowerment: Drag queens have the ability to educate and raise awareness about LGBTQIA+ history, culture, and struggles. Many drag performers use their platforms to address social issues, promote inclusivity, and advocate for equality. By witnessing these performances, LGBTQIA+ youth gain valuable insights and knowledge about their community's history and ongoing struggles. This education empowers them to become active participants in advocating for their own rights and the rights of others.
Drag in popular culture
This may seem like a random leap, from the as serious importance of drag to the almost trivial topic of their influence of pop culture, but for many, the only access that have to the drag community is via tv shows, films, music, theatre... It's very often the first place that we encounter drag, and so exposure to pop culture medias becomes a hugely important part of the movement.
One of the key contributions of drag to pop culture is its ability to break down barriers and challenge traditional notions of gender and identity. Drag performers skillfully navigate the realms of femininity and masculinity, blurring the lines and showcasing the fluidity of gender expression. By doing so, they open up conversations about the constructed nature of gender and empower individuals to embrace their authentic selves.
Music
Drag queens and drag kings have made a significant impact on the music industry, infusing their performances unique artistic vision. From icons like RuPaul, whose groundbreaking show "RuPaul's Drag Race" has propelled drag into the mainstream, to performers like Lady Gaga and Freddie Mercury, who embraced and celebrated gender fluidity in their artistry, drag has shaped the music landscape by pushing the boundaries of gender and performance.
Fashion
Drag's influence on fashion cannot be overstated. Drag queens and kings have always been at the forefront of pushing the boundaries of style and self-presentation. Their bold and innovative fashion choices have influenced designers, photographers, and fashion enthusiasts worldwide. From avant-garde runway looks to daring street style, drag has made a lasting impact on the fashion industry by encouraging experimentation, creativity, and self-confidence.
Television
Television has experienced a drag revolution like no other, with shows like "RuPaul's Drag Race" becoming a global phenomenon. The show not only showcases the talent and artistry of drag performers but also provides a platform for important conversations about LGBTQIA+ rights, self-acceptance, and the power of individuality. Drag has found its way into other television programs as well, with characters like "Pose's" Pray Tell and "Dragula's" Boulet Brothers bringing diverse and authentic portrayals of the drag community to the screen.
Film
Drag has been represented in various films, often as a form of self-expression and empowerment. Movies like "To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar", "Mrs Doubtfire", and "The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert" have brought drag culture to a wider audience, celebrating the art form and exploring themes of identity and acceptance.
Panto
One of the defining features of panto is the inclusion of a "dame" character, played by a male actor dressed in exaggerated female attire. The dame is usually a comedic and larger-than-life character who interacts with the other characters and the audience, often delivering witty one-liners and double entendres. The dame's appearance is usually over-the-top, with extravagant costumes, elaborate makeup, and wigs.
The tradition of the panto dame dates back to the 19th century when male actors portrayed female characters due to societal restrictions and laws that prevented women from performing on stage. Over time, the dame character evolved into a beloved and essential part of panto, bringing humor, charm, and a touch of camp to the performances.
Social Media and Internet Culture
The rise of social media has given drag queens a platform to connect with fans, showcase their talents, and build their own brands. Many drag queens have developed substantial online followings, using platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to share tutorials, performances, and personal stories. Their presence in the digital space has expanded the reach and influence of drag culture, creating a global community of fans and enthusiasts.
Activism and social justice
Drag's influence is not limited to entertainment; it has also made a significant impact on activism and social justice. Drag queens and kings have been at the forefront of LGBTQIA+ movements, using their platforms to advocate for equality, raise awareness about important issues, and support marginalised communities. Through their performances, they challenge stereotypes, break down barriers, and inspire individuals to embrace their authentic selves.
Drag continues to be a vital part of LGBTQIA+ communities worldwide, providing safe spaces where individuals can freely express themselves, find community, and celebrate their identities. It has created a sense of belonging and empowerment for many, fostering acceptance and resilience within the LGBTQIA+ community.
Celebrating the Game Changers
As we celebrate the cultural significance of drag, it is essential to recognise and support drag artists from diverse backgrounds. By attending drag performances, sharing their work on social media, and advocating for inclusivity, we contribute to the visibility and appreciation of drag as an art form and affirm the importance of diverse voices within the drag community. To get you started, here are some of the most notable drag artists that have contributed to todays LGBTQIA+ movement:
RuPaul
RuPaul is arguably the most well-known drag queen globally. He has been a trailblazer in bringing drag into the mainstream through his Emmy-winning reality competition show, "RuPaul's Drag Race." RuPaul has become an influential figure, promoting self-love, acceptance, and LGBTQIA+ visibility.
Jinkx Monsoon
Jinkx Monsoon won the fifth season of "RuPaul's Drag Race" and quickly became a beloved figure in the drag world. Their drag persona is often characterised by their theatricality, unique fashion sense, and powerful vocal performances. They draw inspiration from classic Hollywood stars, vintage aesthetics, and theatrical traditions. Jinkx Monsoon is also known for their portrayal of characters in theatrical productions and cabaret shows, and they recently stared in broadways Chicago as Matron 'Mama' Morton.
Divine
Divine, was a legendary drag queen and performer. Known for his collaborations with filmmaker John Waters, Divine pushed boundaries with outrageous and provocative performances. He became an icon of the underground cinema and is remembered for his role in films like "Pink Flamingos" and "Hairspray."
Lady Bunny
Lady Bunny is a drag queen, DJ, and founder of the annual Wigstock festival. Known for her larger-than-life personality and wild sense of humour, she has been a prominent figure in the New York City drag scene for decades. Lady Bunny has played a pivotal role in bringing drag into the mainstream and continues to entertain audiences with her wit and charm.
Bianca Del Rio
Bianca Del Rio gained international fame as the winner of the sixth season of "RuPaul's Drag Race." Known for her quick wit and sharp tongue, Bianca Del Rio has become a fan favorite, touring worldwide with her hilarious comedy shows and serving as a role model for aspiring drag performers.
BenDeLaCreme
BenDeLaCreme is known for their wit, humour, and campy style of drag. They appeared on the sixth season of "RuPaul's Drag Race" and became a fan favourite with their impeccable comedic timing and polished performances. BenDeLaCreme's drag persona is often described as a blend of classic Hollywood glamour and eccentric charm.
Murray Hill
Murray Hill, also known as "Mr. Showbiz," is a well-known drag king based in New York City. He is known for his comedic performances and old-school showmanship. Murray Hill has toured internationally and has been an influential figure in the drag king scene for many years.
Raja Gemini
Raja Gemini rose to fame as the winner of the third season of "RuPaul's Drag Race." Raja is not only a skilled drag queen but also an accomplished makeup artist and fashion model. Her unique sense of style and artistry have made her a revered figure in the drag community.
Trixie Mattel
Trixie Mattel gained popularity as a contestant on the seventh season of "RuPaul's Drag Race" and subsequently won "RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars" season three. Trixie is known for her distinctive doll-like appearance, country music-inspired performances, and her comedic talents, which have helped her amass a significant following.
Spikey Van Dykey
Spikey Van Dykey is a popular drag king known for his high-energy performances and dynamic stage presence. He incorporates elements of dance, comedy, and lip-syncing into his acts, captivating audiences with his charisma and talent.
Dame Edna Everage
Dame Edna Everage is an iconic character created by Australian comedian and actor Barry Humphries. Known for her distinctive style, exaggerated personality, and signature lilac-colored hair, Dame Edna has become a beloved figure in the world of drag. She has entertained audiences globally with her comedy shows and talk show appearances, often poking fun at celebrities and society with her sharp wit.
Lily Savage
Lily Savage, portrayed by the late comedian and television presenter Paul O'Grady, became a household name in the UK during the 1990s. Known for her glamorous appearance, larger-than-life personality, and risqué humour, Lily Savage entertained audiences with her stand-up comedy and various television appearances. O'Grady's portrayal of Lily Savage helped bring drag into mainstream British culture.
Mo B. Dick
Mo B. Dick is a drag king from San Francisco who has been performing for over 25 years. He is known for his provocative and boundary-pushing performances, challenging traditional notions of masculinity and gender roles.
Courtney Act
Courtney Act gained fame through her appearance on the sixth season of "RuPaul's Drag Race" and subsequently won the 21st season of "Celebrity Big Brother" in the UK. Known for her stunning beauty, vocal talents, and thoughtful commentary on gender and identity, Courtney Act has become a prominent figure in both the UK and international drag scenes.
Baga Chipz
Baga Chipz rose to fame as a contestant on the first season of "RuPaul's Drag Race UK." With her irreverent humour, thick Essex accent, and campy style, Baga Chipz quickly became a fan favourite. She has since continued to entertain audiences with her comedy shows, podcasts, and television appearances.
The Vivienne
The Vivienne won the inaugural season of "RuPaul's Drag Race UK." Known for her exceptional impersonations of celebrities, including Donald Trump and Margaret Thatcher, The Vivienne showcases a combination of comedy, glamour, and impeccable lip-syncing skills. She has become a prominent figure in the UK drag scene, using her platform to advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights. In the last year, The Vivienne has become both the first drag performer to appear on Dancing on Ice, and unfortunately, one of the most recent victims of anti-LGBTQIA+ discrimination and physical assault.
Peppermint
Peppermint gained prominence as a contestant on Season 9 of RuPaul's Drag Race. She is an influential transgender drag queen and activist, being one of the first openly transgender women to compete on the show. Peppermint has used her platform to raise awareness about transgender rights and has become an inspiration for many within and outside the LGBTQIA+ community.
Goldie Peacock
Goldie Peacock is a drag king hailing from the United Kingdom. He is known for his exceptional vocal abilities and his ability to captivate audiences with his soulful performances. Goldie Peacock has performed at numerous events and venues across the UK and has been recognized for his contributions to the drag king community.
Sasha Velour
Sasha Velour rose to fame after winning Season 9 of RuPaul's Drag Race. As a genderfluid and non-binary drag queen, Sasha is known for their unique artistic approach, incorporating fashion, visual storytelling, and intellectual elements into their performances. They have become an iconic figure in the drag world, advocating for self-expression, creativity, and inclusivity.
Gia Gun
Gia Gunn appeared on Season 6 of RuPaul's Drag Race. Gia is a transgender woman of Japanese and Mexican heritage and has been vocal about her experiences as a transgender individual within the drag community. She has used her platform to raise awareness about transgender issues and promote visibility and acceptance for transgender people.
Jiggly Caliente
Jiggly Caliente competed on Season 4 of RuPaul's Drag Race. She is a Filipina-American transgender woman and has been recognised for her vibrant personality and energetic performances. Jiggly has been an advocate for transgender rights and has shared her experiences to inspire and educate others.
Carmen Carrera
Carmen Carrera gained popularity after appearing on Season 3 of RuPaul's Drag Race. She later came out as a transgender woman and has since become a prominent figure in the drag and transgender communities. Carmen has used her platform to advocate for transgender rights, body positivity, and inclusivity in the fashion industry.
The Anti-Drag Movement
Now, having got this far, after reading this pretty extensive piece on why drag is so important to everyone in the community, whether you're LGBTQIA+ and or not, my hope is that you'll find the laws I'm about to tell you about both damaging and dangerous. Because that's what they are. Here's what's been happening...
Arizona: Arizona’s drag ban would characterise drag shows as a part of “adult-oriented performances.” Artists that perform in front of children under 15 years old would be subject to at least ten years in prison, and forced to register as sex offenders, according to the Arizona Mirror. People who allow minors to view drag shows or even enter a location where one is happening would also be punished.
Arkansas: In January, Arkansas State Sen. Gary Stubblefield first introduced Senate Bill 43 with explicit language prohibiting drag shows from being performed on public property around minors. Stubblefield said this provision would serve to better protect children from sexually explicit content, which extended to include drag queen story hours, where drag queens read to kids in places like schools or libraries.
Idaho: Idaho legislators introduced a bill to ban drag in public spaces on Feb. 27, according to the Idaho Statesman. Through this bill, parents would be able to sue event organisers and promoters that permit minors to watch shows that have “sexual conduct.” Sexual conduct is defined as any movements with “accessories that exaggerate” sexual acts.
Kansas: In Kansas, Senate Bill 149 was introduced and referred to the Committee on Judiciary in early February. The measure would expand the “crime of promoting obscenity” to include performing drag shows in front of minors. They define drag as when someone displays a gender identity different from the gender they were assigned at birth, and “sings, lip-syncs, dances or otherwise performs.”
Kentucky: The Kentucky state legislature voted to advance their anti-drag bill, SB 115, on Thursday. The provision would prohibit drag performances from taking place on public property or in places where they could be seen by children.
Missouri: In Missouri, legislators introduced House Bill 1364 on March 1. The bill would criminalise engaging, organising, or authorising the viewing of an adult cabaret performance on public property, which includes drag shows. The provision would also make it an offense to organise or authorise a drag queen story hour, or any other event where a “drag queen…engages in other learning activities with minor children present.” It adds that if any school district, charter school, or employee or volunteer from a school violates this proposed legislation, the school district or charter school will lose funding from the state.
Montana: Montana’s House Bill 359, which would prohibit minors from attending drag performances, passed the House during a preliminary vote on Thursday, according to KTVH. The bill was modified to add drag to the list of sexually oriented acts. Businesses hosting drag performances would be forbidden from permitting people under the age of 18 inside.
Nebraska: Nebraska’s LB371, which would prohibit anyone under the age of 19 from attending a drag show, was first introduced in January. If alcohol is served at the show, people under the age of 21 would also be prohibited from attending.
Oklahoma: In Oklahoma, state legislators last voted on Feb. 23 to advance an anti-drag bill, House Bill 2186, to the House floor. The bill would charge violators with felony charges, a fine of up to $20,000, and up to two years in jail.
South Carolina: Senate Bill 585, which would prohibit adult cabaret on public property and other places where it could be viewed by minors, was introduced on March 2. The text defined “male or female impersonators” as a part of “adult cabaret.” Violators would be guilty of a first offense misdemeanor, face a fine of up to $1000, and up to two years in prison.
Texas: Texas is considering four bills that would target drag shows. The measures would extend the definition of “sexually-oriented businesses” to include places that allow artists to show a “gender identity that is different than the performer’s gender assigned at birth." This could mean coffee shops or bookstores that host drag events would have to consider between getting additional licensing and being subject to different taxes, or stop hosting drag artists, according to the Texas Tribune. The bills have been sent to the Senate and House State Affairs Committee.
West Virginia: In West Virginia, legislators introduced Senate Bill 253, which would criminalise engaging in an “adult cabaret performance” that is on “public property” or if it is performed in a place where it “could be viewed by a person who is a minor.” “Male or female impersonators who provide entertainment that appeals to the prurient interest” fall under this category. People convicted of this felony could be fined up to $25,000 or face up to five years in a state correctional facility.
Anti-drag laws are contributing to the marginalisation and stigmatisation of drag performers and the LGBTQIA+ community as a whole, reinforcing harmful stereotypes and inhibiting their ability to express themselves authentically.
It is important to challenge and advocate against anti-drag laws, as they infringe upon the rights of individuals to freely express their gender identity, creativity, and artistic talents. Activists and organisations work towards repealing or amending these laws, highlighting the importance of inclusivity, diversity, and respect for all forms of self-expression.
As we celebrate the cultural significance of drag, it is essential to recognise and support drag artists from diverse backgrounds. By attending drag performances, sharing their work on social media, and advocating for inclusivity, we contribute to the visibility and appreciation of drag as an art form and affirm the importance of diverse voices within the drag community.
The cultural significance of drag cannot be overstated. It has transformed and influenced every part of our culture in remarkable ways, challenging gender norms, inspiring fashion trends, advocating for social justice, and creating spaces of belonging and acceptance. If we were all to celebrate the artistry and resilience of drag performers, and recognise the profound impact they have had on our understanding of identity, inclusion, and the power of self-expression, the world would be a much happier, safer place.
You can show your support for drag performers, here:
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