The Important History of Drag and the LGBTQI2S+ Community
The idea of drag isn’t new but rather, is said to have operated as one of the earliest forms of entertainment which can be dated back to the Ancient Greek times. In many cultures, especially Western cultures, women were not allowed to be actors or stand on a stage, therefore men would on roles that would have otherwise been played by a woman. The importance and power behind drag for 2SLGBTQIA+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, two-spirited—an Indigenous identity that embodies both masculine and feminine spirits—and the plus including anyone who still questions their identity) individuals is paramount. For a breakdown of the meanings of our 2SLGBTQIA+, click here.
A Community Banded Together
Those who identify within the scope of LGBTQI2S+ can often feel isolated and alone. Unfortunately, many families and religious groups still pour shame on those who identify as LGBTQI2S+
One of the most pivotal and international moments in the history of this powerful community was in the '60s and '70s during the Stonewall Riots of 1969. These happened in New York City and not here in BC but it is important to note that the brutality toward these community members has been happening all over the world for far too long.
Decades later, BC (British Columbia) Drag Queens are still experiencing far too much hate with protests all over a variety of cities spewing hateful comments, signs, and gestures against the LGBTQI2S+ community. Thankfully, many Canadian politicians are taking the stance of condemnation against such protests, such as Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino and Women and Gender Equality Minister Marci Ien who have publically spoken about the problematic nature of those who feel that it is fine to spew hate across the BC area.
This is why drag is such an important thing for the community, as it shines a light on the community and has managed to draw more positive attention toward the LGBTQI2S+ community. Famous activists and members of the community internationally, such as Ru Paul, have become some of the biggest speakers for the importance of keeping the community safe from hate crimes, hate speech, harassment, assault and battery. For example, his show Ru Paul's Dragrace has become the most popular Drag show of all time and has given individuals the platform to express themselves, explain their stories, show their creative sides, have fun and be allowed to be exactly who they are in a safe and supported space. The high visibility of the show has led to more and more people around the globe welcoming this beautiful community in a way that was never done before.
How Do Other Parts of Canada Compare?
In other regions of Canada, such as Ontario, members of the Ontario Legislative Assembly are pushing an important bill to protect the rights of LGBTQI2S+ members was held in a conference room where the member speaking was supported and surrounded by Drag Queens. They are demanding rights that should have been implemented a long time ago, as many members of this community have been ridiculed, harassed and even worse for too many years. The bill requires a ban on offensive remarks toward the community. The aim is to create a safety zone and anyone trying to hurt, be cruel or intimidate its members is said to receive up to a $25,000 fine if said within 100 meters, i.e., within hearing distance. Led by a member of the NDP (New Democratic Party), Kristyn Wong-Tam still faces hurdles and backlash but is making great progress.
Each district within Canada has its own set of rules and regulations around these topics. Drag is one way the community shows its fierce beauty, creativity and forms the base for storytelling. There is still a very long way to go but each small step forward is a great victory for the LGBTQI2S+ community.
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