Imagine waking up to find your face plastered all over Congress. That’s exactly what happened to me when Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) used my photo as part of her testimony at a subcommittee hearing in March 2025. But what made this moment even more surreal? The Congresswoman didn’t just reference me; she accused me of being a “monster” targeting children.
As a drag queen and children’s author, I’ve faced my fair share of attacks—book bans, protests, and countless false accusations aimed at stoking fear around the LGBTQ+ community. But never had my name been used in such an extreme way in the hallowed halls of Congress. Greene’s comments were filled with wild misinformation, even suggesting I was a threat to children simply for performing at a Drag Story Hour or reading my picture book, The Hips on the Drag Queen Go Swish, Swish, Swish.
Her words were hurtful and based on blatant falsehoods. For instance, she argued that PBS and NPR were pushing “radical left” ideas just by featuring drag queens on shows like Let’s Learn. But the truth is, my segment was produced by WNET, not PBS itself, as confirmed by PBS CEO Paula Kerger. And let’s not even get started on her accusation of “sexualizing” children. Drag, far from being harmful, is about creativity, imagination, and celebrating individuality.
Greene’s attack highlights a deeper issue: the growing wave of censorship against LGBTQ+ voices and the arts. This isn’t just about drag queens—it’s about ensuring that children from all backgrounds see themselves reflected in media and learn to embrace diverse perspectives. It’s about ensuring that kids—no matter their gender, identity, or background—can express themselves freely and without fear of ridicule.
Despite Greene’s antics, I’m not backing down. Drag performers like me belong in public spaces like libraries, schools, and public television. We’re not just an art form; we’re a vital part of encouraging young minds to think outside the box, challenge societal norms, and celebrate their uniqueness. Whether it’s a drag queen reading to children or a book featuring diverse characters, it’s about showing kids that there’s more to the world than the narrow confines some would like to impose.
It’s clear to me now: politicians like Greene, who push for censorship and division, are the real “monsters.” Drag is about breaking barriers, embracing joy, and making space for everyone—especially kids—who want to explore the colorful world around them. And while Greene may have started this fight, I’m ready to stand tall and remind her: It’s better to be fabulous than fearful.
Through my work, I aim to empower kids to be bold, to dream big, and to never let anyone—especially not a politician with outdated views—tell them who they should be. Because when it comes to fighting for the future of our children and our country, it’s time to stop being bullied and start being fabulous.
