For the past decade, the art of drag has blossomed into a global phenomenon and at the same time, come under attack in small towns and state houses all over the nation. In response to the continued anti-drag and anti-trans laws being put forth nationwide, Paradise in Asbury Park NJ went to the city with a request; name May 7th ‘Drag Queen Visibility Day’. The proclamation was instantly approved by both the Governor’s office and the State Senate of New Jersey, with events being held at the Jersey Shore hotspot to commemorate this momentous occasion.
As Drag Queen Day Visibility Day prepares to celebrate its second anniversary on May 7th, Paradise and Empress Hotel manager Ryan Jimenez is taking steps to cement this day in the history books nationwide. Jimenez has applied with the National Day Calendar Review Committee to grant Drag Day of Visibility recognition on a national platform! While his first two applications have been rejected, Jimenez is unyielding and continues to gain signatures to have Drag Queen Visibility Day receive national status and be added to the annual calendar.
Jimenez’s words on the petition showcase exactly why recognizing this day nationwide is so critical. He said in part that “we not only will be able to showcase our art, but help erode the notion that drag is dangerous”.
Sign the Change.org petition to make ‘Drag Queen Visibility Day’ a National Holiday here
