A new campaign called “Drag the Vote” is mobilizing queer communities and their allies across Canada to head to the polls in the upcoming federal election.
The grassroots campaign, launched by the Society of Queer Momentum, seeks to push back against rising sexual minority rhetoric by encouraging civic engagement and voter turnout.
Leading figures in the queer community, including transgender activist Fae Johnstone and drag performers such as Karla Marx, Elle Noir, and Ford Ranjer, are leading the movement.
Known as Drag Ambassadors, they use their platforms on social media and at live shows to share advocacy materials, host events, and encourage people to vote.
With over 200 drag artists participating across the country, organizers say their reach stretches from major cities to smaller communities.
Although the campaign is non-partisan, it directly addresses political issues that affect queer and transgender Canadians.
Supporters of “Drag the Vote” aim to combat the spread of misinformation and hate speech by raising awareness about policies targeting 2SLGBTQ+ rights.
By combining drag performances with community outreach, the campaign wants to give voters some knowledge about how elections work and why every vote matters.
Ambassadors and volunteers will hold discussion sessions, distribute informational flyers, and encourage registration for those who may feel overlooked or uncertain about the electoral process.
Organizers say they want to see leaders who will uphold legal protections for queer individuals, rather than roll them back.