1. It’s A part of everyday life
Think of something you’re good at. Now think of doing it in 8-inch heels, a full face of makeup, and throw in maybe a split or two. That’s just good old Drag- except it’s so much more than that. Many people are caught up with the modern sweep and excitement of live performances, especially with the growing popularity of Drag Queens. Thanks to powerhouses like RuPaul and his show “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” drag has become a common and loved topic for many. Not only does this portray a thrilling moment for the entertainment industry, but also for the LGBTQIA+ community, as it signifies a new way for people to appreciate and learn about queerness. Drag has been a part of not only gay culture, but almost everyone’s everyday life for years and it’s time to say “oh wow!” to its influence on the arts.
2. It’s more than just “entertainment”
Drag performance holds so much more within itself than being “entertainment”. The Art of Drag has been around for ages and has embedded and left its mark within theatre, dance, art, fashion, song, and our own individuality. Historically, it challenged gender – when women weren’t allowed to perform it was a norm for men to throw on a dress. It also goes back to some religious ceremonies, Shakespearean performances, and even America’s founding fathers who wore wigs and painted their faces. Now it’s a form of expression for many. Drag is the making of a character, presenting someone whom you wish to portray to society, or a message that you want to tell. As a matter of fact, whatever you’re wearing, and how you’re sitting and reading this is your own current Drag. A great role model, one of my old Colorguard directors once told me “We are born naked, the rest is drag” and I had to sit in awe. When we are naked, we are bare of our identity, not because we are born without personality but because we choose to decorate ourselves with interests, fashion, and passions to portray a little bit of our own inner queen.
3. It’s a safe space for everyone
“There is no original or primary gender a drag imitates, but gender is a kind of imitation for which there is no original,” said Julia Butler. Drag goes past any gender because it combines the femininity and masculinity of the body and mind then calls for exploration. It includes all races, and body types, it’s for everyone. The Drag community shows this with its diverse range of performers and audiences. Drag is a safe space for many in the LGBTQIA+ community because of the support and gathering of people who love and appreciate the dedication to not only Drag but each other. Drag has helped many people transition, find passions, accept themselves, and learn how to have fun. It teaches young people to lead by example and introduces the LGBTQIA+ community to outsiders who want to understand and admire others. Women like Jinkx Monsoon, a queen and the first transwoman to be cast in a lead Broadway role, show how Drag helps one develop because is it a beautiful example of how important self-acceptance and individuality are. Monsoon said, “Drag queens before me handed the torch to me, and I took the torch and hopefully will hand it on to the next generation of young, talented queer people who want to break glass ceilings.”
4. It helped me educate myself & appreciate others
I chose to write about Drag because I have been surrounded by it forever and didn’t realize- nor give it the chance to be loved the way it deserves. In recent light of society’s hate towards the LGBTQIA+ community, I wanted to educate myself as a straight woman to show it’s possible for everyone to take time to learn and not be misinformed. This is a way to thank the people who taught me to be myself and develop into my own crown. This art has always been a part of my life thanks to dance, color guard, and theatre. I think it truly has made me an open and loving person. There will always be hate from people who are unsure maybe of themselves or what they believe in but beyond it stems curiosity and that one feeling can guide them towards a place that could change their life. I want to immortalize my love for the arts and the ones brave enough to portray it. I love you Drag.
You better work, b*tch!