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Greetings,
I'm going to reflect today on our upcoming Pride events this weekend ~
I think about Drag in terms of gender expression. Any gender can dress in drag; it is a form of theater or performance art. Thinking back to my own childhood, how did gender expression come across?
I watched pro wrestling as a kid. Anyone remember Jesse "The Body" Ventura, Ultimate Warrior, or Ric Flair? Wrestling always amplified gender expression, theater, and costume. Many of the wrestlers were inspired by another wrestler named "Gorgeous George" - coming into the ring with perfume and a feather boa. It was performance. It was theater. I've also enjoyed stage theater performances throughout my life. Did you know that many people at the theater shows dress as a different gender or even in various costumes to tell these stories? Historically, women were not allowed in early theater performance. One of my brothers also worked at a record store and brought home a lot of records and cassettes...I always enjoyed looking at the covers and listening to a variety of music. Anyone remember glam rock? Or artists like Prince, David Bowie, or Brian Eno? Gender expression right there as well. So as a kid, I experienced what I consider drag and gender expression through music, tv, and theater. My mom also taught me to respect every person I met, but to also be strong willed and be true to myself.
The comment I continue to hear is "I don't want my taxpayer dollars spent on this." Well, many LGBTQ+ members of the community don't want their taxpayer dollars spent on different projects or programs either...we have to serve ALL of our community. I primarily receive this comment related to any books or programs offered for the queer community. And yes, LGBTQ+ members of our community are your neighbors, service employees, and taxpayers here as well. I'd also add that our summer programs are funded through generous private donations as well as through booksales.
If you made it this far in my missive today, this was your choice to read it or to delete it right away. Just as it is your choice of whether to attend or not attend a Library program. Or to choose a book or movie that you feel is appropriate for you or your family. As we discuss America250 and "freedom" - what does that actually mean, if we do not have the freedom to represent our entire community? We have historic flags and documents in Colton Hall that celebrate the sacrifices individuals made to be part of what we call a free country.
Our program in partnership with Monterey Peninsula Pride and Monterey Public Library Friends & Foundation is not about teaching kids sexuality - it's an opportunity for people to gather and celebrate. It's an opportunity for families to have conversations about why someone looks different than you. It's an opportunity for people to see representation in their community.
If the program isn't for you - or if you don't want to go - that is perfectly OK. If you don't like a book or movie at the library, that's OK too. Our collections and programs are based on community input and representation. Personally, I grew up not immediately looking at someone and making a judgement about them, and I hope that my neighbors and community can also do the same.
A great public library has something in it that inspires, educates, informs, and yes, offends everyone.
Warmly,
Brian
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