WATCH: Queens take over MSNBC & have the perfect response for Republicans trying to ban drag
RuPaul’s Drag Race, drag as art art form feels more popular than ever, which has also made it an even easier target for anti-LGBTQ+ politicians who are using it to stoke fear and hate—and even attempting to ban it all-together in some states.But, as we know, drag is nothing new; it’s been part of a fabric of our culture—of many cultures—for centuries.So, where is all of this hate coming from?
Why now? And how does it effect the lives of the artists and trans individuals who have made drag their careers?All of these questions are at the heart of a frank and eye-opening panel discussion airing this week on MSNBC, of all places, furthering solidifying drag’s ascent from the fringe to the heart of the current cultural conversation.The 11th Hour host and vocal LGBTQ+ ally Stephanie Ruhle has spent a lot of time shining a light on the dangerous anti-drag and anti-trans laws sweeping the country, and now she’s inviting a group of accomplished queens onto her network to speak truth to power and share their experiences.Joining Ruhle for the panel are Drag Race and Titanique alum—and Queerty Pride50 honoree!—Rosé, legendary queen and activist and Stand Up NYC creator Julie J, the Glam Awards’ Nightlife Producer Of The Year Nicky O, and the inspirational trans activist Mariyea.The group’s conversation will air tonight, Thursday, June 15, on MSNBC’s The 11th Hour at 11pm ET, but Queerty has a special preview of the full panel, which you can watch below.Early in the discussion, Julie J offers that drag is something that comes purely from a place of love and joy—making it all the more ironic and sad that there are folks who want to paint it as a “malicious entity” that’s looking to “dominate culture in some way or another.”A great pop.
