TheDrag Racealum reminisces about her first Pride and shares a powerful message for anti-drag lawmakers.
What the f*ck is going on in here on this day?
Its complete foolishness but its all in fun.
The show adds a little sparkle to the week.
Of course,Alyssas Secreton WOW Presents Plus is far from Alyssas first successful venture.
Her impressive Werk Room stint earned her a spot on 2016sAll StarsSeason 2.
What followed was a string of triumphant projects, including her Netflix docuseriesDancing Queen.
The first-ever Pride parade I attended was in New York City, Alyssa says.
Imagine me, this small-town queer boy from Mesquite, Texas, in the big city.
I was overcome with the amount of colors and people.
I could just feel the love in the air I want to experience that again.
Below, Alyssa talks self-care, the pioneer who ismother RuPaul, andanti-drag legislation.
Most Likely To Be My Biggest Fan.
How do you feel about anti-drag laws popping up across the nation?
Theres so much bad going on in the world, and this is your focus?
Its the greatest distraction of all time.
What would you say to lawmakers who are opposing the art of drag?
Ive owned the Beyond Belief Dance Company and worked with children for 20 years.
I pride myself on that.
I have been a positive leader, a mentor, and a teacher Ive dedicated my life to that.
What were some of your go-to songs or artists in high school?
The very first CD I ever bought was The Cranberries, andLingerwas my favorite song.
I would also listen toIrisby the Goo Goo Dolls all the time, and Madonnas albumRay of Light.
I also stream Nicki Minaj a lot.
Shes my hype artist and gets me lit up.
Tell us about yourself-careroutine and mental health tips.
We have to remind ourselves that self-care and self-love are so vital.
I take myjournalwith me and Ill stop along the trail and write down conversations Im having with myself.
I find it very peaceful and very therapeutic.
I also love treating myself to a goodfacialand making time foryogaclasses.
What is the most memorable drag show youve ever attended?
I loved the props, the dancers, the costumes, and the rhinestones.
Just the sparkle of it all.
But what I really found mesmerizing were the unapologetic performances.
Who are your favorite drag queens and why?
The queen of drag herself,RuPaul.
The person, the pioneer I have so much admiration and respect for her.
This is a person who had a vivid vision and didnt just dream it but became it.
Ill forever be grateful for the opportunity RuPaul gave me.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
This article was originally published onJune 15, 2023
