After reading J.M. Sorrell’s June 5 column, “Not a drag,” I am compelled to write. The author expressed concern and, quite frankly, disgust that drag performances comprised the bulk of the rally portion of 2019 Noho Pride.
She goes on to describe the concept of drag as misogynistic toward women. She speaks of an era in Northampton (1980s), describing a “feminist community,” and how eventually gay men, bisexuals, and transgender people “benefitted and contributed.” The writer touches on drag kings. That because “men are the oppressor,” it is seemingly OK for women to dress up as men and perform. I wonder how the writer felt about the many Northampton drag kings who performed alongside the best of local drag queens, “misogynists” in the writers’ eyes. Or what about the cis women, trans women, and nonbinary folx who continue to subvert gender norms through drag.
Also, the comment equating drag to “black face” is disturbing. Drag is art. Drag is expression. Drag is also non-gender specific. And drag is, and always will be, an integral part of the LGBT community. Fundraising? Drag has fed and clothed those who were displaced due to their identity. Drag has housed teens who were thrown out of their homes like garbage by parents for being gay. Drag has paid medical bills for those who couldn’t afford treatment for HIV. Drag made the sick smile and laugh when they had nothing to smile and laugh about. Drag helped bury the dead because their families abandoned them in death as they did in life. Drag also helps fund Pride events.
Given the current administration’s attack on our rights, it is critical we rise up, not fragment and demoralize those who have helped put us where we are today. I stand by my sisters and brothers of drag, as well as the bisexual, trans, and gender nonconforming people the writer disrespected in this article, and condemn its misguided words. It is time to work together.
Sir George Hicks
Granby