US drag queens stand their ground amid intimidation by the far right

[marmar]

(Guardian UK) The drag queens were out in force across New York’s recent Pride parade triggering cheers and waves with their flamboyant and extravagant costumes.

But this year the world of American drag has been marred by growing fears of violence and intimidation as they have been specifically targeted by conservatives and extremist far-right and militia groups amid a general rise in anti-LGBTQ hate.

One of the main targets for rightwing ire has been Drag Queen Story Hour events where drag queens will read books to children at public libraries.

Three weeks ago at a reading in a library in San Lorenzo, 30 miles from San Francisco, a group of men, one wearing a T-shirt stenciled with the image of an assault rifle, interrupted a drag performer reading The Kindness Book to pre-schoolers, frightening all. .............(more)

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jul/04/drag-queens-targeted-us-far-right

[multigraincracker]

1. They all look

fabulous.

[crickets]

2. Excellent article.

Hope you don't mind I add the non paywall link:
https://archive.ph/1c1Ew

I grew up adoring Flip Wilson's Geraldine Jones. Nobody thought anything of it other than what it was: a hilarious character, a strong-willed woman with a certain fashion flair and a scary boyfriend named Killer. It didn't hurt that Flip had great legs in those short skirts.

We're talking about creative people who entertain without hurting anybody. That there are drag queens who also get involved in reading programs for children is a wonderful bonus. All of the Mrs. Grundys out there need to get over themselves.

[Skittles]

3. YOU GO GIRLS

yes INDEED

[IngridsLittleAngel]

4. Good for them

They aren't doing anything wrong. They haven't done anything wrong. They've not hurting anyone. There is absolutely no reason to back down to these incel animals.

I admire and applaud their courage and their refusal to cave or hide because of these domestic terrorists. I do continue to hope they stay safe, because no question they are at risk.

It would help if the damned cops would step up and do their jobs: protect the innocent and arrest the UltraMAGA goons.

Drag queens forever... Nazi incels NEVER.