As drag performances continue to face attacks and restrictions in several states, Palm Springs, California, has declared itself a sanctuary for drag and all forms of self-expression. The Greater Palm Springs Pride has announced that the theme for Pride Week, to be held in November, will be “Drag Now. Drag Forever,” and that the city will be a haven for drag queens, kings, drag mothers, and baby queens regardless of their realness, flawlessness, disheveled presentation, or fierceness.
Palm Springs joins other California cities, including West Hollywood and San Francisco, in supporting drag performances. The announcement comes at a time when anti-LGBTQ+ bills have been introduced in at least 14 other states, and Tennessee passed a law restricting drag performances, making it the first state to do so; however, it is temporarily blocked by court action.
“Facing a legislative landscape of increased attacks on members of the LGBTQ+ community coupled with physical violence, we must gather to support one another and be unified against fear and intimidation,” said Palm Springs Pride President and CEO Ron deHarte. “The fight for freedom continues.”
Palm Springs Pride Week is the largest annual event in Palm Springs and the largest multiday gathering of LGBTQ+ people in Southern California’s Coachella Valley. In 2022, official Pride Week events attracted 200,000 attendees and generated a $38 million direct economic impact for area hotels, shops, restaurants, and other local businesses.
The theme “Drag Now. Drag Forever” calls on the community to unite and support the drag community. Drag has existed for hundreds of years and is part of everyday life, the press release from the group reads. “Drag is not a crime. Drag is art. Drag is entertainment.”
As Pride Week approaches, Palm Springs welcomes everyone to support the drag community and fight all anti-LGBTQ+ bills that threaten the freedom and equality of all. The fight for freedom and equality continues, and Palm Springs is leading the way by proclaiming itself a sanctuary for drag.