Queens of Color: What It Means to Be a Black Drag Queen

Abstract

Despite the increased attention surrounding drag in society and the mainstream media, there remains a paucity of research on the distinct subcultures that comprise the overall drag community. The following study explores the lived experiences of six Black drag queens utilizing the qualitative research methodology of interpretative phenomenological analysis. To this end, the researcher gathered data via semi-structured interviews. Data analysis revealed six group experiential themes and six subthemes that shed light on what it means to be a Black drag queen. As the first of its kind, this study aims to foster an understanding of Black drag queens among counseling professionals and enhance their ability to offer culturally responsive treatment. Additionally, this research serves to amplify the voices of a community whose members embody numerous marginalized identities.

Keywords:

• Black
• drag queen
• counseling
• LGBTQIA+
• interpretative phenomenological analysis

Acknowledgment

The author would like to acknowledge Laura Bruneau for her keen insight and guidance throughout this study.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).