The film “Paris is Burning” discusses poverty, being homosexual as an African American, and racism. The show “RuPaul’s Drag Race” frequently mentions this film. It was inaugurated by the famed drag performer Pepper Labeija. Men compete against one another in a game called The Ball. You demonstrate who you are and how you get where you are. For many gays, the Ball is the center of the universe. Also known as ballroom, which some people are familiar with to to blockbuster series like “pose.” It showed both the dazzling enjoyable side of sex industry and the tragic underbelly of sex work.

By shedding light on the experiences of New York City drag queens, Livingston is able to elicit an emotional response from her audience. The documentary made it appear as if drag originated out of a desire to feel attractive and strong, which is the polar opposite of how mainstream culture makes homosexual and trans people feel. The presence of homosexual and trans persons was undesirable to the majority of society, which preferred that the gay and trans communities remain hidden. By copying these famous actresses and supermodels, the drag queens received a taste of the beauty and power that homosexual men were never permitted to enjoy. Drag queens live their fantasies on stage at balls, but those are aspirations they want to achieve in the real world. Thus, to become famous, affluent, and to live freely and joyfully. To be everything and nothing all at once.

This era was always something i loved because it was all about drag queens (which i am one) and club kid icons. It’s just a shame how much hate and ignorance we have to endure…..figured change would’ve happened.