Drag in Corvallis persists amidst national violence

By KATIE LIVERMORE News Reporter

up (on) 10 years of tenure as a community organizer and drag queen,” Mirza said. “I used to walk around in Albany, in like skag drag, 18 years old and not be afraid. But now I'm afraid leaving my house.”

Ahead of an early April drag brunch held at Biere Library, Mirza, who was set to perform in the event, received death threats and feared the event would be canceled.

Recently advertisements for the all ages drag brunches held at Biere Library have added a content warning including content warnings for potential strong language, suggestive humor and body positive expression, according to Mirza.

On April 2, the day of the brunch, protestors were waiting outside of Biere Library and as Mirza got out of her car. They stuck phones in her face and began taking pictures of her and her car.

During this, local community members and event security came to Mirza’s aid, outnumbering the protestors, and the protesters left.

According to Mirza, the best way for OSU students and Corvallis residents to take action amidst the concerning climate is to support local organizations like Haus of Dharma, Haus of Indica and the venues that currently hold performances in the community.

In fact, financially supporting the venues by attending events means getting the drag performers paid for their performances. Many drag performers rely on these events and monetization of their social media accounts as a part of their income. De Los Santos said showing up and supporting local events will help create a safe space for all to participate in Corvallis drag.

As for the future of drag in Corvallis, Mirza envisions having a designated space for drag, as the current spaces have limited capacities, only being able to turn into a drag space for a day. She hopes this designated permanent drag space will take the form of a gay bar opening in Corvallis someday.

De Los Santos hopes drag is accessible to everyone who wants to participate without the fear of violence, wondering if it’ll be their last show.

“I hope we can express ourselves without the backlash of ignorant anger and misunderstanding. We are not dangerous, we are not perverted or dirty. We are beautiful, sacred and divine. We are living art” Ajootian said.

From top to bottom, Richard Rider (he/ fae/they/xies), Charlotte D. Harlotte (they/ them), Crusty (they/them/him) and Frisky the Transgender Reindeer (she/her) performing at Bombs Away Cafe on April 20. Bombs Away Cafe and Haus of Dharma hosted this event as a 4/20 event and to support the queer community.