Graduation Term
2024
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
School of Communication
Committee Chair
Byron B Craig
Committee Member
Stephen E Rahko
Abstract
After decades of being either silenced or portrayed in a villainous perspective, LGBTQ+ individuals are beginning to see more representation on television including shows that feature drag performers. While previous shows such as RuPaul’s Drag Race and Dragula have been released for several years, We’re Here offers a new and unique approach to portrayals of drag on television by omitting the competitive aspect of the prior two shows. Analysis reveals that We’re Here highlights drag as a political tool that can both resist hegemonic standards and create community amongst participants and audience members. A critical lens reveals implications for racialized trauma, anti-queer legislation, and religious influences regarding queer participants on the show of varying backgrounds and intersectional identities.
Access Type
Thesis-Open Access
Recommended Citation
Pizzini, Grace Elizabeth, "Dragging Us Together: Exploring Media Representations of Drag as Coalition Building and Queer Resistance in We’re Here" (2024). Theses and Dissertations. 1999.
https://ir.library.illinoisstate.edu/etd/1999
DOI
https://doi.org/10.30707/ETD2024.20240827063558088297.999964