Zebra Coalition’s 2021 Drag Race 5K. (Photo by Jeremy Williams)
ORLANDO | Hurricane Ian slammed into Florida with unrelenting force, leaving many buildings destroyed and streets flooded across Central Florida. One community effected is the Zebra Coalition.
The Zebra Coalition provides services to LGBTQ youth, by tackling issues such as homelessness, bullying, sexual, physical and emotional abuse LGBTQ children face. The program promotes to guild young minds to a state of stability and recovery.
Its 5k Drag Race provides an opportunity for people to strap on their best running shoes, while wearing the most colorful outfits they can think of. Local drag personalities, along with many participants were encouraged to run, walk or even sashay their way around Lake Baldwin The annual race was supposed to be the kick off event for this year’s Come Out with Pride Orlando on Oct. 9.
Due to the flooding, Zebra Coalition has made the decision to cancel the in-person event.
“We are very saddened to have to move the event to a virtual platform this year. We are so grateful for all of our supporters who have helped us raise over $37,000 – we will be tagging all of our sponsors, team captains and runners on our social media platforms this weekend. Looking forward to having a fabulous Drag Race 5k in 2023!” says Heather Wilkie, executive director of Zebra Coalition.
Unable to safely conduct the race in person, the organization is encouraging their participants to support Zebra youth virtually. Emails will be sent out later this week detailing how participants can partake.
Participants who had signed up for the event will be given the opportunity to pick up a packet containing a medal and T-shirt which would’ve been provided at the race.
