RuPaul, the drag queen, is urging Americans to “vote these stunt queens out of office” in response to the recent wave of legislation banning drag shows.
In a video posted to Instagram Wednesday, the creator and host of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” called Republican lawmakers’ fixation with anti-drag and anti-trans legislation a distraction, comparing it to bullying.
“Hey look there! A classic distraction technique that takes us away from the real issues they’ve been chosen to focus on: jobs, health care, protecting our kids from harm in their own school,” RuPaul said.
“But we know that bullies are incapable of solving real problems. They look for simple goals to give the impression that they are efficient. They think our love, our light, our laughter and our joy are signs of weakness . But they’re wrong, because that’s our strength.”
The Emmy winner then issued a call to action.
“Drag queens are the marines of the queer movement. Don’t get twisted or distracted,” RuPaul continued. “Register to vote so we can get these stunt queens out of office and put smart people in government with real solutions. By the way, a social media post is still never been as powerful as a registered voice.”
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee signed legislation Thursday restricting “adult cabaret performances” in public spaces, including “male or female impersonators who provide entertainment that has an attractive interest.”
Legislation banning gender-affirming health care for transgender youth in Tennessee was signed on the same day. And on Monday, Tennessee passed another anti-drag law requiring “adult comedians” to obtain a performing license.
Lawmakers in 14 states — including Arizona, North Dakota, Kentucky and Texas — have also proposed anti-transportation and anti-trans legislation in similar language.
When the stars of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” recently gathered in West Hollywood for a viewing party to celebrate the show’s 200th episode, current contestants and alumni were vocal about the impact of the drag ban on the community.
Season 15 contestant Sasha Colby said, “It’s wild to see what’s going on as all these anti-trans bills masquerade as anti-drag bills.”
“You know what we won’t do?” Colby asked. “We won’t let them get us. We’ll keep doing what we have to do. Because you know what? Drag is for us and drag is art.”
Season 12 contestant Jackie Cox encouraged anyone who felt offended, saying that if she hadn’t found resistance, she wouldn’t be a whole person.
“When you see what’s happening on the news, you might feel like they’re out to get us, and they are, but you know what? We’re stronger, we’ll keep fighting, we’ll make sure none of these anti-trans and anti-drag laws hold. They’re going to say goodbye,” Cox said. “We’re going to continue to fight this battle.”
Source: LA Times