The Mayor of San Francisco, London N. Breed, announced Thursday the launch of the first "San Francisco Drag Laureate" program, which will embody the city's historic, diverse and inclusive drag culture, elevating the entire community on the national and international stage.
Those who want to apply to be the city's first Drag Laureate must submit your request electronically by January 16, 2023. After the applications close, a vetting committee made up of representatives from city departments and community groups will review the applications and bring the finalists to Mayor Breed, who will make the final selection .
“Drag performers have helped pave the way for LGBTQ+ rights and representation in our city, and they are part of what makes our city so special. Investing in programs that continue their legacies and create opportunities for the next generation of drag performers to thrive helps us celebrate our city and this community,” Breed said.
Some responsibilities of the San Francisco Drag Laureate include helping to develop and promote the role of the Drag Laureate, serving as a spokesperson for the San Francisco LGBTQ+ community, participating in community-based drag programs and events that reflect and honor the diversity of San Francisco, and partner in an official capacity with various city agencies and community organizations throughout the entire 18-month period, including during Pride Month.
In addition, producing Drag programming and events focused on celebrating and supporting the LGBTQ+ community in collaboration with the San Francisco Public Library, Friends of the San Francisco Public Library, the San Francisco Arts Commission, and community partners, as well as ensuring that San Francisco's rich drag history be shared, honored, and preserved, and help promote and select the next Drag Laureate toward the completion of their 18-month term
"San Francisco wouldn't be the beacon for LGBTQ rights without drag performers," Supervisor Rafael Mandelman said. "This show is a fitting recognition of the essential role drag plays in our queer culture, and I look forward to seeing who will be named our first Drag Laureate."
To qualify, applicants must submit a written and video application, as well as be a full-time resident of the City and County of San Francisco, be at least 21 years of age by the application deadline date, have fundamental knowledge of San Francisco drag history, and show enthusiasm and love for the city and demonstrate the ability to serve as its ambassador.
Likewise, participants must have experience in community activism, participation and philanthropy; ability to work collaboratively with a wide range of people from diverse backgrounds, and be able to organise, produce and manage events and/or projects from start to finish.
"I can't think of any other city with a more talented, diverse, inclusive and exciting drag community than San Francisco," said drag activist Roma.
It should be noted that the San Francisco Public Library ?SFP, for its acronym in English? will provide the chosen artist with a grant of $55,000 over the course of the 18-month period to support their work and community involvement.
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