Actor, writer, director, choreographer, producer, and entrepreneur D'Arcy Drollinger, was named by the City of San Francisco as the first Drag Laureate, who will serve as a spokesperson for the city's LGBTQ+ community, as well as produce and participate in events and programs that celebrate the rich history and diversity in the area.
Among other responsibilities, the new Drag Laureate will be required to associate in an official capacity with various city agencies and community organizations; producing Drag programming and events focused on celebrating and supporting the LGBTQ+ community; ensure San Francisco's rich drag history is shared, honored and preserved; and help promote and select the next Drag Laureate toward the completion of their 18-month term.
"I am honored and excited to have been chosen as San Francisco's Drag Laureate, and I am proud to live in a city that is a pioneer in this position, while other parts of the US and the world may not support drag." said D'Arcy Drollinger.
At an event held by the city council, the new Drag Laureate stressed that "this role will build bridges and create partnerships, while uplifting and celebrating the Art of Drag."
"As the first Drag Laureate, I am dedicated to continuing to uplift my fellow members of the LGBTQIA+ community with the support and endorsement of the Mayor's Office, and I look forward to the positive effect this will have on Bay Area performers and in our great city”, stressed the artist.
The San Francisco Drag Laureate program is a joint initiative of the Office of the Mayor, the San Francisco Public Library ?SFPL? and the Human Rights Commission ?HRC?.
D'Arcy was selected by Mayor London Breed from among 15 applicants, following a vetting process that included an 11-member Review Committee from various City Agencies.
"While drag culture is under attack in other parts of the country, in San Francisco we embrace and uplift the incredible drag performers who through their art and advocacy have contributed to our city's history of civil rights and equity," said the mayor.
"I am proud to invest in programs that create a platform for people like D'Arcy who send a message to the nation and the world that our great city is a model of acceptance and opportunity for all," he added.
To be considered for the position of Drag Laureate, interested individuals had to meet certain criteria, including being a full-time San Francisco resident, having a fundamental understanding of the city's drag history, and having experience in community activism, engagement, and philanthropy.
The San Francisco Public Library will provide D'Arcy with a grant of $55,000 over the course of 18 months to support his work and community involvement.
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