By Esmeralda Villalpando
The world of drag and the LGBTQ+ community closely correspond with each other and for the most part they go hand in hand. Essentially, when someone thinks of drag queens, they may also think of LGBTQ+, and vise versa. Much like the majority of regions in the world, Latin America still has some work to do when it comes to drag acceptance and treatment. Gradually that fact is changing, and achievements, whether they be small, are being reached towards equality little by little.
At this moment, Latin America is considered to be a country filled with social tension. There are still many individuals living in these countries that treat anyone who may be ‘deviants’ in a cruel manner. There is a devastating research I came across by The Guardian from 2017 which states that in Brazil there was a 30% rise of violent deaths towards LGBTQ+ people. That was evidently in relation to the increase of anti-gay politicians at the time. Even though that is the sad reality, in between all the prejudice and unjust treatment, there is a vibrant community filled with joy. Being that countries in Latin America consist of so much social and cultural tension, supporting drag is seen as a form of political participation. When drag and LGBTQ+ communities from places less ignorant than others take steps towards a new victory or a new way members can express themselves, other countries work to follow. Much like Latin American countries that have deep rooted macho culture and homophobia, taking the initiative to do something completely new can seem unpredictable in terms of the response. I identify this with the ballroom/vogueing phenomenon that occurred years ago. First it started in America, then it spread to Asia and Europe, and eventually it came to Latin America. That is why it’s great to see queens and community members from around the world supporting each other into advancing in their everyday life.
Something exciting that has recently been brought to life is the announcement of Drag Race Espana, the Spanish adaptation of the famous Drag Race franchise. I am very much excited to see this actually happening, especially because I see it only doing good things. For one, it brings joy and excitement to so many around the world. Secondly, it will help open minds and spread acceptance, specifically in countries and regions that need an extra push such as Latin America. I have come across many Spanish articles that have wrote about this announcement, and the excitement is very much present. It is obvious that not many representations and opportunities occur where it is a high exposue that can also be seen by the general public and not just within the community. Although that has been changing recently through out the years, it is still considered a big win.
Speaking of Spain, compared to other Latin American countries, Spain is one of the most drag friendly. An Euro Weekly journalist named Barry Duke, visited Spain and fount that to be true. In Barcelona, there is also a highly popular drag race event competition, Futuroa Sarao Drag, that is held every few months. It used to be held annually, but with its increased in popularity throughout then years, it is now done several times a year.
From what I could find, as well as from my personal experience visiting many parts of Mexico, drag is much more hidden. Even in a big city like Monterrey, there is little venues to be found where they host drag. The bright side is that in Mexico City, the capital of Mexico, is much more diverse in terms of LGBTQ+ places and venues.
I found that in brazil the drag scene is constructed in a looser manner and is seen as a melting pot. While in Mexico, the majority of drag looks and performances include traditional Mexican attire. In Brazil, you will definitely still see performers include their culture into their drag, but it also mainly consist of just about any type of drag style. A huge star I have to mention that comes from Brazil is Pabllo Vittar, who is a drag queen, singer, and songwriter. They aren’t just famous in their home country, but the stardom goes beyond to all over the world. She showed the world that drag queens are more than just superficial entertainment, rather they are just as hardworking as any artist with dedication.
Puerto Rico is a country that definitely has a vast drag and LGBTQ+ scene, as shown in the documentary we viewed for class Mala Mala. There are places within the country, like San Juan, where drag really thrives. Still, a lot more can and should be done to better protect people in the community. Every country, not just Puerto Rico, needs to advance and get over their old ignorant ways to give drag queens and queers the acceptance that’s needed. It is true that major victories are made for the cause like the approval of Law 238-2014 in Puerto Rico. Milestones like those are major achievements, but still is the minimum of what is deserved.
Much like how America's major cities are the most educated and cultured than the rest of the state/country, it is no different in Latin America. Where drag is the most accepted and practiced is in fact in big cities like Barcelona and Mexico City, rather than the more rural areas. Drag performers try to break away from local stereotypes by challenging the macho culture and identity roles put in place. It is especially important for it to happen in Latin America, where homophobia and transphobia is still visibly present.
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