Drag performances have been an integral part of the LGBTQ+ community for decades — and in recent years, they’ve gained wider recognition and acceptance across the world. As a performer who constantly works with families and communities, I have witnessed how drag has positively impacted the lives of many individuals.
At its core, drag is a form of self-expression and artistry that allows individuals to explore their gender identity and creativity in ways that may not be possible in their everyday lives. For many members of the LGBTQ+ community, drag provides a space for them to express themselves freely and authentically to connect with others who share similar experiences and struggles.
One of the most important aspects of drag is its ability to defy societal norms and expectations surrounding gender and sexuality. Drag performers often challenge the rigid gender binary that dominates our society. This can be a powerful and transformative experience for both the performer and the audience, as it encourages individuals to embrace their own unique identities and to challenge the norms that restrict them.
Moreover, drag performances have provided a platform for advocacy and activism. At Rose Dynasty Foundation, which I founded to help provide a safe space for LGBTQ+ youth and families, we use our events to raise awareness about issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community, like discrimination, violence and inequality. We want to promote the idea of being loved, accepted and wanted, all to help strengthen the fight against the stigmas and prejudices that continue to exist.
Drag is enjoyed by people of all backgrounds and identities. From small bars and clubs to large arenas and theaters, drag has become increasingly mainstream and has attracted audiences from all over the world. This has helped to promote greater visibility and acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community, helping to break down some of the barriers that exist between different groups of people.
As a drag queen in Florida, I have seen firsthand the transformative power of drag and how it has positively impacted the lives of many individuals. For some people, drag is a form of therapy that allows them to escape the stresses and challenges of their everyday lives. It provides them with a safe space to express themselves and to connect with others who understand their struggles.
For others, drag is a way to connect with their community and to build relationships with others who share their experiences. Many people in the LGBTQ+ community feel isolated and alone — drag provides them with a sense of belonging and acceptance that they may not find elsewhere. This can be especially important for young people who are struggling to come to terms with their identity and who may not have a supportive family or community.
Drag has also helped to promote greater visibility and awareness of LGBTQ+ issues. Performers often use their platform to speak out about issues that affect the community. They use their performances to raise awareness and to promote acceptance and inclusivity. This can have a powerful impact on both the audience and the wider community.
It’s important to remember that drag is also a form of activism and advocacy. Many drag performers use their platform to promote social justice and to fight against the stigmas and prejudices that exist in our society. They use their performances to create real change in the world.
Overall, drag performance is a crucial aspect of LGBTQ+ culture and provides a powerful platform for self-expression, community building and advocacy. As a local Florida drag queen, I am proud to be part of this vibrant and transformative community, and I am committed to using my platform to promote acceptance, inclusivity and social justice.
I believe that through our performances and our activism, we can help to create a world that is more accepting, more diverse and more inclusive for all. In Florida and beyond, we will continue to spread the message that everyone is loved, accepted and wanted for who they are.
Momma Ashley Rose has performed family friendly drag for over 20 years. She is a philanthropist, public speaker, activist and mentor who founded Rose Dynasty Foundation to help provide a safe space for all. Learn more at RoseDynastyFoundationInc.org.
