Drag Is Our Resistance

There are disturbing reports of a number of drag shows across Ontario becoming targets of hate. As of October 2022, 15 drag reading events across Canada have reportedly been subjected to protests, retreats, and online harassment. Drag artists are scared for their safety and for our communities at large.

Drag culture is an integral and affirming part of our communities’ fabric. Drag kings, queens, and everyone in between do the important work of creating more inclusive and affirming environments for our communities – including children and families – to grow and thrive. The 519 stands in solidarity with drag artists in Toronto and across the province and country. You deserve access to performing and being in safe spaces. Our communities deserve safety, period.

Drag culture will continue to be an essential part of our own year-round programming and our Green Space Festival’s Starry Night. We support our drag artists and rise up to any hate targeting them or our communities at large.

We condemn the hate facing our drag artists. We know that we have always had to rely on each other to keep each other safe. We call on the police and justice system to take these threats seriously and do their part in supporting vital community spaces and art.

If you have or are experiencing violence of any kind, including violence via social media, please contact The 519’s Anti-Violence Initiatives (AVI) at AVI@The519.org.

To our drag community, our Army of Lovers has your back. Keep slaying.