Patriotic Drag King?
Happy 4th of July from a Drag King / Queer Patriot
Happy 4th of July, friends! I hope this day brings you joy, reflection, and a sense of community as we celebrate our nation's independence. Whether you're enjoying a backyard barbecue, watching fireworks, spending time with loved ones, or simply taking a moment to appreciate the freedoms we have, I wish you a celebration that is meaningful to you. Let's remember the ideals that this country was founded upon and strive to make them a reality for everyone.
I am a military veteran, a drag king, and a queer person. I dedicated 15 years of my life to serving and protecting our country, and as I transition out of the military, my mission is evolving. Now, I’m channeling my passion and energy into advocating for equality within our nation's freedoms. Through drag and activism, I hope to uplift and support marginalized communities, striving to create a more inclusive and just society.
Living as a queer person and a military veteran often presents a stark dichotomy that shapes my experience in profound ways. On one hand, my veteran status is a source of pride; I served this country with dedication and a belief in its core values of freedom, liberty, and justice. On the other hand, my queer identity places me in a community that still fights for basic rights and recognition. This contrast creates a complex reality where I am simultaneously honored for my service and marginalized for who I am. Additionally, being assigned female at birth and navigating life in a predominantly male-dominated military environment adds another layer of complexity. As a Caucasian, I recognize the privilege that comes with my race and am still acutely aware of the systemic racism that persists and the urgent need to advocate for equality for all races. Balancing these aspects of my identity – my veteran status, my queer identity, my gender, and my race – I am driven to fight for a country where true equality and justice are not just ideals but lived realities for everyone.
Independence Day is a day of national pride and reflection for all Americans, celebrating the values of freedom, equality, and justice upon which our country was founded. For queer people, this day holds additional significance as a reminder of our ongoing struggle for these same rights. It's a day to acknowledge how far we've come in our fight for acceptance and equal treatment, while also recognizing the work that still lies ahead. By embracing Independence Day, we affirm our place in this nation and commit to continuing the pursuit of true freedom and equality for everyone, ensuring that the promise of independence extends to all, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.
Patriotism as a Drag King and Queer Person
Patriotism, to me, is about believing in the fundamental values of freedom, equality, and justice that this country was founded upon. I deeply believe in this country and its potential to be a place where every individual is valued and their rights are protected. Patriotism isn't just about pride in our achievements or loyalty in the face of threats; it's about striving for a better, more inclusive society where everyone's rights are upheld.
As a drag king and a queer person, I will continue to fight for the rights and freedoms of each individual to be equal. Women should have the right to bodily autonomy, free from oppressive legislation. Transgender people need access to comprehensive healthcare that respects and affirms their identities. Our gay and lesbian communities deserve the same rights and recognition as anyone else, free from discrimination. Additionally, we must address the systemic racism that plagues our society and work towards genuine equality for people of all races. It's also crucial to honor and respect Indigenous lands and their rightful stewards, recognizing the history and sovereignty of Native American tribes. True patriotism means fighting for the America we believe in – one where freedom and equality are not just ideals but realities for everyone… it’s about ensuring that the promise of freedom and equality is a reality for everyone, not just a select few. As both a veteran and a queer person, I will continue to fight for these ideals, believing in the potential of this country to be a place where every individual is valued and their rights are protected.
Celebrating American Diversity
It's truly remarkable how diverse America is, with people from all walks of life contributing to the vibrant and varied culture of our nation. We need more moments to celebrate this diversity and the unique perspectives it brings. I encourage everyone to celebrate our differences while raising awareness at events that promote equality, ensuring that our voices are heard. Sometimes, in the midst of the struggle, I forget to take a moment to express gratitude for the incredible support that we have for each other and to recognize the progress we've made. I am dedicated to fighting for equality, and there's still much work to do, but celebrating our diversity and the steps we've taken toward equality is essential to keep moving forward.
Patriotic Drag King
The unique perspective of being a drag king and feeling patriotic involves embracing and celebrating the freedom to express oneself authentically in a society that values diversity. As a drag king, I use performance art to challenge traditional gender norms and advocate for equality, reflecting the very ideals of liberty and justice that our nation was founded upon. My patriotism is rooted in the belief that everyone should have the right to live openly and proudly, without fear of discrimination. Celebrating Independence Day as a drag king allows me to honor the progress we've made while also highlighting the ongoing fight for true equality and freedom for all. This blend of artistry and activism embodies a deep love for my country and a commitment to making it a better place for everyone.
Drag Performances Dedicated to Independence Day
Drag culture celebrates Independence Day with creativity, flair, and a sense of community that brings people together in joyous and meaningful ways. Drag performers often incorporate patriotic themes into their acts, using red, white, and blue costumes, makeup, and props to pay homage to the holiday. Shows may feature performances that highlight American music, historical moments, and symbols of freedom, creating a festive atmosphere that resonates with audiences. Additionally, drag events on the 4th of July often include fundraisers and awareness campaigns for LGBTQ+ rights, merging celebration with activism. These performances not only entertain but also remind us of the ongoing struggle for equality and the importance of celebrating our freedoms. Through parades, shows, and community gatherings, drag culture embodies the spirit of Independence Day by celebrating the diversity and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community.
The Challenge of Celebrating Freedom
Celebrating freedom on the 4th of July can be challenging for a queer person due to several reasons:
1. Legal and Social Inequities: Despite advances in LGBTQ+ rights, many queer individuals still face significant legal and social challenges. Discrimination in areas like employment, housing, and healthcare remains prevalent, making the notion of freedom feel incomplete or conditional.
2. Recent Legal Setbacks: Book bans, Bathroom Bills, and events like the overturning of Roe v. Wade signal a potential threat to other rights, including those related to LGBTQ+ protections. This can create a sense of vulnerability and fear about the future of hard-won freedoms. See the excerpt at the end of this blog for more on anti-queer legislation.
3. Ongoing Discrimination and Violence: Many queer individuals still experience hate crimes, bullying, and systemic discrimination. Celebrating freedom while facing such threats can feel hypocritical or hollow.
4. Exclusion from Traditional Narratives: Independence Day celebrations often emphasize traditional narratives of American identity that may exclude or marginalize queer experiences. This can make it difficult for LGBTQ+ people to feel fully included or represented in these national celebrations.
5. Intersectional Struggles: For queer individuals who are also part of other marginalized groups (e.g., people of color, immigrants), the challenges are compounded. The struggle for racial equality, immigrant rights, and other social justice issues intersect with LGBTQ+ rights, highlighting the broader inequalities in society.
These factors create a complex and often painful reality, making it hard to fully embrace a holiday that celebrates freedom and equality when those ideals have not been fully realized for the queer community.
While the nation celebrates its freedoms, many LGBTQ+ people still face discrimination, prejudice, and legal challenges that undermine their sense of liberty. For instance, the overturning of Roe v. Wade highlights the fragility of rights that many have fought hard to secure, creating a sense of unease and insecurity. The right to marry, the right to access healthcare, and the right to live free from harassment are freedoms that some take for granted, yet they remain areas of active struggle for the queer community.
It has been difficult for me to celebrate this holiday since Roe v. Wade was overturned. The ruling was a significant setback for women's rights and bodily autonomy, making it challenging to fully embrace a day that symbolizes freedom and independence. As someone who values equality and justice for all, it's hard to feel patriotic when the rights of women and marginalized communities are being eroded. This ruling is a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for true freedom and equality in our country. Despite these challenges, I continue to fight for a future where everyone's rights are respected and protected, even on days like Independence Day when the celebration feels bittersweet.
Amidst these challenges, there are numerous reasons to celebrate and remain hopeful:
1. Progress in LGBTQ+ Rights: Significant strides have been made in recent decades, including the legalization of same-sex marriage and broader acceptance of LGBTQ+ people in many parts of society. These advancements show that change is possible and that advocacy efforts can yield positive results.
2. Growing Support and Allies: There is an increasing number of allies and supporters who stand with the LGBTQ+ community. Organizations, corporations, and individuals are more vocal than ever in their support, helping to create a more inclusive environment.
3. Visibility and Representation: The visibility of LGBTQ+ people in media, politics, and public life continues to grow. Representation matters, and seeing queer individuals in prominent roles helps to normalize and celebrate diverse identities.
4. Resilient Communities: The LGBTQ+ community is known for its resilience and solidarity. Through grassroots organizing, mutual support networks, and community events, queer people continue to build strong, supportive communities that uplift and empower each other.
5. Advancements in Legal Protections: While there are setbacks, there are also ongoing efforts to strengthen legal protections for LGBTQ+ people. Advocacy and legal challenges are continuously pushing for more comprehensive and enforceable rights.
6. Youth Activism: The younger generation is more open, accepting, and active in fighting for social justice. Their energy, creativity, and commitment to equality offer hope for a more inclusive future.
7. Cultural Celebrations: Events like Pride Month, drag shows, and queer film festivals celebrate LGBTQ+ culture and achievements, providing spaces for joy, expression, and community building.
8. Global Progress: Around the world, more countries are recognizing and enshrining LGBTQ+ rights. This global momentum contributes to a sense of hope and solidarity across borders.
By focusing on these positive aspects and the progress made, we can find reasons to celebrate and remain hopeful. Celebrating our victories, no matter how small, and acknowledging the support we have can fuel our determination to continue fighting for a more just and equal world.
The LGBTQ+ community is known for its incredible strength and resilience, continuously fighting for equality and acceptance despite numerous challenges and setbacks. Through unity, activism, and unwavering support for one another, we have made significant strides toward a more inclusive society. Our ability to persevere and thrive in the face of adversity is a testament to the power of community and the unyielding pursuit of justice.
By joining together in solidarity and support, we can achieve true independence and equality for all, ensuring that every person's rights and freedoms are respected and celebrated. Together, we can create a future where everyone's freedom is recognized and respected, paving the way for a truly inclusive and just society for all.
As we celebrate this 4th of July, let’s reflect on the meaning of patriotism and focus on celebrating the diversity within our nation. Being a military veteran, a drag king, and a queer person, I understand the unique perspective that comes with balancing pride in our country with the ongoing struggle for equality. While recent setbacks make it difficult to fully embrace the holiday, the strength and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community give me hope. Our progress, growing support, and the rich diversity of America are reasons to celebrate and remain hopeful. By joining together in solidarity and advocating for true independence, we can create a future where everyone's freedom is recognized and respected. Let's take a moment to express gratitude for the support we have for each other, celebrate our diversity, and recognize our progress. Happy 4th of July to all, and may we continue to strive for a more inclusive and just society.
Additionally, please research some of the legislation and proposed bills that negatively impact queer people in the United States, such as:
Anti-Transgender Legislation:
Bathroom Bills: Laws that require individuals to use public restrooms that correspond to their sex assigned at birth, which can endanger transgender people and deny them access to appropriate facilities.
Healthcare Restrictions: Bills that aim to restrict access to gender-affirming healthcare for transgender youth and adults, such as hormone therapy and surgeries.
Religious Freedom Restoration Acts (RFRAs):
These laws allow businesses and individuals to refuse service to LGBTQ+ people based on religious beliefs. They can lead to widespread discrimination under the guise of protecting religious freedom.
Bans on LGBTQ+ Content in Schools:
Some states have passed or proposed laws that prohibit the discussion of LGBTQ+ topics or the inclusion of LGBTQ+ content in school curricula, often referred to as "Don't Say Gay" bills. This can prevent young people from learning about LGBTQ+ history and issues, contributing to a lack of representation and understanding.
Marriage Equality Challenges:
While same-sex marriage is legal nationwide, there have been attempts to undermine this right through laws that allow government officials to refuse to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples based on religious objections.
Employment and Housing Discrimination:
Although the Supreme Court ruled in 2020 that the Civil Rights Act protects LGBTQ+ people from employment discrimination, there are still legislative efforts at the state level to weaken these protections or exclude LGBTQ+ people from anti-discrimination laws.
Adoption and Foster Care Restrictions:
Some states have laws that allow adoption and foster care agencies to refuse to place children with LGBTQ+ individuals or couples based on religious beliefs. This limits the ability of LGBTQ+ people to adopt or foster children and can leave more children without homes.
Military Service Restrictions:
The transgender military ban, implemented under the Trump administration and partially reversed under the Biden administration, restricted transgender individuals from serving openly in the military. However, there are ongoing debates and legislative efforts that could impact the ability of transgender people to serve.
These legislations contribute to a climate of inequality and discrimination, making it challenging for queer people to feel fully included and protected in society.
