In a powerful response to the surge of anti-trans legislation and attacks on drag performances across the nation, San Francisco has taken a bold step forward. Mayor London Breed announced the creation of a groundbreaking position – the nation’s first drag laureate. With this move, the city aims to defend and celebrate its vibrant LGBTQ community during a time of adversity.
San Francisco has long been recognized as a haven for LGBTQ rights, and Mayor Breed believes that creating a role dedicated to embracing drag culture and leveraging government resources is a natural progression. The inaugural drag laureate, D’Arcy Drollinger, a prominent drag performer and nightclub owner, will receive a stipend of $55,000 over the course of her 18-month tenure.
Drollinger, a passionate advocate for the drag community, expressed her commitment to making San Francisco shine even brighter. She believes that drag performers bring an unmatched blend of sparkle, humor, glamor, and silliness to the world, contributing to the resounding success of drag as an art form. Throughout her role, Drollinger plans to be in drag virtually around the clock for the next 18 months, symbolizing her dedication to the cause.
The drag community in San Francisco is already politically engaged and active, holding significant influence. Drollinger acknowledges this power and feels honored to be able to take it a step further as the city’s drag laureate. Her responsibilities will encompass organizing and participating in drag events, serving as a spokesperson for San Francisco’s LGBTQ community, and ensuring the preservation of the city’s rich drag history.
While San Francisco leads the way, other cities are beginning to follow suit. West Hollywood, known for its progressive stance on LGBTQ issues, is poised to appoint its own drag laureate soon, albeit with a lower salary and fewer engagements. In contrast, New York City’s attempt to create a similar position has faced challenges, languishing in a committee despite the historical significance of the Stonewall riots in the fight for LGBTQ rights.
Drollinger’s tenure as the drag laureate will commence just weeks before Pride Month, a fitting time to emphasize the significance of the LGBTQ community’s resilience and visibility. Her role goes beyond representing San Francisco; it involves elevating the entire drag community on a national and international stage. Mayor Breed commended Drollinger as a “bright star” for her advocacy and support of the city’s drag community, praising her leadership in the face of adversity.
Although Drollinger recognizes the existence of vocal anti-drag sentiments, she refuses to let fear overshadow her growth and impact. Drag performers have faced targeted violence, even within the Bay Area. However, Drollinger remains resolute and believes that the drag laureate position will send a resounding message across the country: drag is not something to be feared but rather celebrated.
As San Francisco takes this momentous step, it is hoped that other cities will be inspired to establish their own drag laureate programs. The visibility and personal connection fostered by such positions hold the potential to reshape narratives and promote acceptance. In the face of adversity, San Francisco stands firm as a beacon of hope and inclusivity, using the power of drag to defend the rights and dignity of the LGBTQ community.