With the various archaic legislatures aimed at the drag and trans communities, LGBTQ+ organisations are raising awareness and funds with the upcoming ‘Drag Isn’t Dangerous’ campaign.
Led by Producer Entertainment Group (PEG), with support from GLAAD, Q.Digital, OUTtv, Five Senses Reeling, Trixie Cosmetics and SERV Vodka, the social media and digital campaign offers resources and information on how to support drag and LGBTQ+ causes.
A one-night telethon – taking place Sunday 7 May – will see various drag performers and celebrities unite for live and taped performances, appearances and testimonials.
Confirmed talent (so far) includes: Alaska, BeBe Zahara Benet, Bob The Drag Queen, Brandon Stansell, Darienne Lake, Desmond Is Amazing, Divina De Campo, Eureka O’Hara, Frankie Grande, Ginger Minj, Jackie Beat and Jiggly Caliente.
More sickening star power incoming: Jinkx Monsoon, Jujubee, Justin Martindale, Katya, Kerri Colby, Laganja Estranja, Manila Luzon, Miz Cracker, Monét X Change, Nina West, Peppermint, Salina EsTitties, Sherry Vine, Trinity The Tuck and Trixie Mattel.
More names will be announced in the coming weeks. According to a press release, none of the performers or organisers are “taking fees” for their work on the campaign.
All proceeds from the event “will be divided among approved charities that support LGBTQ causes and drag performers in need, especially in states where they face discrimination and bans”.
On 2 March, Tennessee became the first state to ban drag shows from taking place in public spaces and/or places where minors may be present, with similar bills introduced in at least 14 others including Arizona, Oklahoma and Kentucky.
In a statement, Jacob Slane from Producer Entertainment Group explained: “We are sick of it. These bans are not just about trans people or drag performers. It is a systematic subjugation of LGBTQ people.
“Through the ‘Drag Isn’t Dangerous’ campaign, we want to show that drag performers are not dangerous groomers, sexual deviants, criminals or whatever is the latest evangelical slur du jour.
“We want to raise awareness and funds to make a difference in the lives of LGBTQ people who are under attack.”
Anthony Allen Ramos, Vice President of Communications and Talent at GLAAD, said it’s “more crucial than ever to remind the world that drag is art, drag is inspiring, and the politicians spreading lies about drag are only seeking cheap political points.”
“Not only do our beloved drag performers have to be protected, they should also be celebrated,” he added.
Jason Brotman, Founder and President of Obsessed, the company behind various drag tours, said: “As an organization whose entire mission it is to amplify queer artistry, we are outraged by the collective efforts to send queer culture, creativity, and people underground.
“We are devoted now more than ever to creating safe spaces for our brilliant artists and our wonderful fans. We are honored to join forces with colleagues across our industry and beyond to say loud and clear: we are here and we will not be going anywhere any time soon.”
Merchandise for the Drag Isn’t Dangerous campaign can be purchased on PEG’s store, with all proceeds going to charity. For more information on the campaign, visit here.
Latest
