RuPaul’s Drag Race UK star Crystal has recruited 20 drag artists for a campaign aimed at increasing voter registration and turnout ahead of the UK’s upcoming General Election.
Shot by photographer Matt Ford, “Votes, Babes!” is a fierce photo campaign that includes alumni from across all five seasons of Drag Race UK, as well as legendary figures within the British drag community.
The line-up (including Crystal) is as follows: A’Whora, Adam All, Ally Cub, Charity Kase, Cheryl Hole, Chiyo, Choriza May, DeDeLicious, Divina De Campo, Don One and Ella Vaday.
Deep breath for even more sickening star power: Freida Slaves, Jonbers Blonde, Just May, Kate Butch, Kitty Scott-Claus, Michael Marouli, Pixie Polite, River Medway and Tiny Gentleman.
Crystal, who memorably defeated Laurence Fox in a libel case back in January, tells GAY TIMES that drag has “always been about self-expression, visibility and politics, so it’s a natural fit for a voter registration campaign”.
According to recent research from The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE), only 40 per cent of young people who are eligible to vote said they will do so in the next General Election, while three fifth’s said they would be “unlikely” or were still questioning whether or not to head to the polls.
Crystal says she was “dismayed” with the results of the study, and was inspired to create “Vote, Babes!” to try and encourage those who are disillusioned with the current state of British politics.
“I couldn’t have imagined the project would get so big,” she continues, “and I’m so thankful to all of these incredible artists who donated their time to make this campaign happen!”
Ford adds: “Capturing these incredible artists in a way that encourages positive change has been an honour. We’re not just creating beautiful images; we’re creating a movement.”
De Campo, who has been continuously outspoken about the Conservative Party and their attacks on the LGBTQIA+ community, says: “It’s always the most important election ever but this time really feels like it is.
“Super excited for change! Hopefully see you at the polling booths!”
The deadline to register to vote in the General Election is midnight on Tuesday 18 June. You can register to vote here.
You can also visit votebabes.com for more information on Crystal’s campaign, as well as an easy checklist for engaging potential voters.
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