My brother's a drag queen, and I am his ally
As the sister of a drag queen, Kristin Burtaine explains the importance of speaking up in a difficult time.
A tragic movement is happening in our country right now. Fear is being instilled about trans people and drag queens, and Tennessee just became the first state in 2023 to restrict public drag show performances. Fear can be a common response to the unknown. So, as the sister of a drag queen, I thought I might have something to offer here.
My brother Ryan is gay. Growing up, he always presented as creative and with more traditionally feminine mannerisms and interests. My classmates constantly asked me, “Is your brother gay?”
Conformity keeps us safe. To go against what society expects of us can be dangerous, and even today I can still speak to the pain of hearing the things people said to and about him. I defended him zealously, and what I realize now is that I wanted so badly for him to fit in, to belong, to be safe. Instead, what he has taught me is that standing bravely outside of society’s expectations of you is the most beautiful and meaningful way to live.
Read the latest by Kristin Burtaine
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What we’re doing this week
TRAXXX: Black Queer Nightlife in Hi-Fidelity
WHEN: May 4th at 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
WHERE: SF MoMA at 151 3rd St.
Within Sadie Barnette’s The New Eagle Creek Saloon, join us for a hybrid performance, lecture, and dance party led by artist-scholar and DJ madison moore centered on the meaning and value of Black queer nightlife spaces.
Billy Porter - Black Mona Lisa Tour
WHEN: May 5th at 8 p.m.
WHERE: Golden Gate Theater at 1 Taylor St.
Grammy, Emmy, and 2x Tony winner Billy Porter brings passion and joy to San Francisco with his first-ever career-spanning pop music concert tour. Expect a full band, backed by a video installation, fronted by Billy Porter telling his life story through song.
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