As the fifteenth season of RuPaul’s Drag Race comes to a close, the show’s judges are using their platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and stand up against discriminatory legislation. In a recent interview with Out, the judges discussed the importance of unity and the power of education and joy in the face of fear and hate.
Partnering with the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), the team behind RuPaul’s Drag Race has created the Drag Defense Fund to support drag performers across the country. The judges also emphasized the significance of using social media and voting to make one’s voice heard and effect change.
“We are out, proud. We’re unapologetic,” said Ross Mathews. “People out there, even though they might not be a member of our community… they know somebody in our community. When they put that on the ballot, I promise you people go in that voting booth and can’t vote against their friend, their coworker, their family member. Stay strong. Be louder than ever and we will win.”
The judges’ messages of hope and solidarity serve as a reminder to the LGBTQ+ community that they are not alone in the fight for equality. “What you do and who you are is super important,” said Michelle Visage. “We’re here for you.”
RuPaul, Madison, Carson Kressley, and Ross Mathews all spoke about the power of education and joy in overcoming fear and hate. “All of this manufactured fear and hate and craziness with drag bans across the country can really be defeated by showing people what drag is,” said Kressley. “If they watch the show or go to a drag queen story hour or they go to their local bar or club and see a drag show, they’re going to realize it’s joyful. That’s our power, when we educate and we lead with joy.”
As the finale of RuPaul’s Drag Race airs this Friday on MTV, the judges’ inspiring messages serve as a call to action for the LGBTQ+ community and allies to continue the fight for equal rights and acceptance.