Drag, Spirituality, and Gender: A Powerful Panel Discussion
Drag is a vessel for gender exploration...it always leads to great joy in its experience.
Picture a room where drag artists and spiritual seekers come together to share their journeys. That's exactly what you'll find in this episode of 'A Queer Chaplain', hosted by Bonnie Violet. The panel features diverse voices like Christopher Belmont, a clown-inspired king from Chicago who defies gender norms, and King Julez, a Masters of Divinity student aiming to bridge the gap between faith communities and the 2S-LGBTQIA+ community.
They dive into their personal experiences with drag as a form of gender exploration and self-expression, discussing how it brings joy and a sense of freedom. The conversation doesn't shy away from the tough stuff either. The panelists talk about the challenges faced by trans and non-binary performers, from needing to prove themselves constantly to dealing with exclusion in certain venues. Yet, the focus remains on the power of inclusivity and how drag can unite people from all backgrounds.
Spirituality is another key theme. Bonnie Violet, a self-described 'digital chaplain' and 'spiritual drag artist', leads discussions on how spirituality intertwines with their drag performances. Each panelist shares how their spiritual beliefs influence their art and help them heal from trauma. This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the intersection of drag, spirituality, and gender. It's an enlightening and inspiring conversation that highlights the transformative power of drag, encouraging listeners to embrace their truest selves.