I am extremely disappointed that the Gazette saw fit to publish J.M. Sorrell’s divisive piece regarding drag performance.
Drag performance has a rich history. If Sorrell believes the purpose of drag is to ridicule women, she has chosen to either ignore or avoid educating herself regarding the history and nuance of drag. It has been at the center of contributions to community charities, raising awareness of causes, and direct activism.
Throughout its history, drag has provided a space for gender nonconforming and transgender people to freely and safely express themselves. Not incidentally, these are the same people who threw the first bricks at Stonewall. During a month when LGBTQIA folks should be lifting each other up, Sorrell has chosen to single out and denigrate members of our community.
This is not what leadership of a truly inclusive Pride looks like and an apology is owed to performers who have given their time, energy, and talent to support Pride events.
Alexander Pangborn
Haydenville