CANADIAN DRAG QUEEN BROOKE LYNN HYTES BELIEVES IN THE IMPORTANCE OF INCLUSIVE HEALTHCARE

As we all know, June is pride month which means 30 days of parades, parties, glitter, rainbows, drag shows and marketing campaigns wherein brands try to ally themselves with the gay community. We’ve come a long way since the 1969 Stonewall Uprising in Manhattan which pride month commemorates, but June also is a month to reflect and recognize the years of oppression and stigma that LGBTQ2S+ people have fought to overcome to have the ability to publicly celebrate their joy and it reminds us of the major barriers the community continues to face. One such barrier remains access to stigma free healthcare, something that Freddie and Canadian drag queen Brooke Lynn Hytes are looking to call attention to this pride season.

The host of Canada’s Drag Race, Queen of the North and Freddie ambassador was in Toronto last week for an event at Paris Paris promoting the healthcare provider’s Protect Our Pride campaign–a bold celebration and defence of the community’s diversity and resilience. “It’s not just about painting rainbows; it’s about safeguarding the essence of Pride through mutual support and action against discrimination,” says Hytes.

We caught up with the queen over email before the event to discuss her work with Freddie and why it’s important to do your research and not get sucked in by rainbow washing.

How did you and Freddie first cross paths?

“Oh, honey, Freddie and I go way back! I first learned about them through friends in the community. Who hasn’t spilled about their sex life over brunch? Very Sex and the City of us. When I saw how dedicated they were to providing affirming and inclusive healthcare, I knew we had to join forces to support our community’s health and well-being. It’s been a fabulous partnership ever since!”

Tell us more about the Protect Our Pride campaign.

“Teaming up with the Keith Haring Foundation adds a powerful layer to this campaign, using Haring’s iconic art to raise crucial funds for young people and those affected by HIV/AIDS. By partnering with Canadian Foundation For AIDS Research, Freddie is also making a tangible impact at home, promoting HIV prevention with PrEP and supporting vital research.”

June is a month seemingly full of Pride campaigns. In your opinion, how can members of the LGBTQ2S+ community and allies authentically navigate the rainbow washing?

“June’s overflowing with Pride campaigns, right? To truly navigate the rainbow washing, you gotta do your homework. Look deep into those brands and make sure they’re walking the walk every day, not just when the cameras are rolling in June.”

One of the shows you host, 1 Queen 5 Queers invites more diversity and intersectionality into the conversation around the queer experience than the original version. How have you enjoyed being a facilitator to these contemporary conversations?

“As an executive producer, it’s been incredible to steer these conversations on 1 Queen 5 Queers. We’re diving deep into diversity, intersectionality, and all facets of the queer experience. It’s a thrill to champion this level of representation on television.”

You’ve been a lifelong performer, how has your dance background served you as a Drag Queen and host?

“My dance background has truly been my backbone as a Drag Queen and host. It instilled in me discipline and a deep respect for teamwork, which are crucial in both the spotlight and behind the scenes.”

Can you shout out any up and coming drag performers or artists you’ve encountered that should be getting more love and attention this June (and any month)?

“Hahah, I’m gonna have to say Naomi Leone after her viral falling from the roof video! If you haven’t seen it, check it out! Glad you’re ok girl!”

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The post Canadian Drag Queen Brooke Lynn Hytes Believes in the Importance of Inclusive Healthcare appeared first on Elle Canada.

2024-06-28T13:57:29Z dg43tfdfdgfd