As a Muslim, drag is something that I was never introduced to. It wasn’t until I embarked on this magazine that I truly threw myself into the world of drag and all it has to offer.
Before co-creating DRAG magazine, I wasn’t familiar with drag culture. Of course, I've seen drag queens in movies and TV shows but didn’t know anything about what it takes to succeed in the industry, about the struggle that accompanies 'coming out’ and entering the drag world. As a Muslim, I've never watched any drag TV programs like Ru Paul’s Drag Race or attended any live drag performances prior to working on this project.
Over the past few months of working on this magazine, I've had the opportunity to speak to many queens and watch drag TV shows, truly indulging in the industry. From my experience this far, I can say that the drag community is the kindest community that I've interacted with. As a journalism student, I know that it isn’t always easy to find people willing to participate in projects. Since working on content for DRAG, I have encountered a multitude of queens and fans who are more than willing to help.
If I’m being totally honest, my first opinion of RuPaul's Drag Race was mixed. Initially, I struggled to connect with the program because I didn’t understand the concept. However, after watching a few episodes, it’s safe to say I was hooked and couldn’t wait to find out who would stay or leave. It's the craziest and most vibrant show I've ever watched, with all the colour, glitter and comedy.
What I love the most about drag is makeup and clothing. I love how exaggerated everything is in the drag world. Whilst I don’t think I'd ever be able to create makeup looks quite as vibrant, I now anticipate watching the queens do it every week.
While I don’t feel inclined to attend live shows, I adore watching drag on TV. It’s safe to say that I’m positively obsessed with Drag Race now!
Image: courtesy of Katie Wilson.
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