An inaugural Sun-Times event, Hear My Story brought a storytelling experience for all ages to The Hideout. Drag performers from Chicago told their stories of perseverance, truth, love and acceptance, answering the question “Why do I do drag?”
Last July, a family-friendly drag show at UpRising Bakery and Cafe was canceled after an anti-LGBTQIA+ hate crime and dispute with Lake in the Hills city officials. In response, the Sun-Times Editorial Board published an editorial, citing that “hate is not effective.”
We encouraged readers and attendees to learn more about LGBTQIA+ performers by listening to their stories and supporting the art of drag.
Our host, Sun-Times columnist Ismael Perez, was joined by performers:
- Jakki Love, one of the performers who was scheduled for the UpRising Bakery event. She’s the pretty stupid pop diva from the suburbs of Chicago, winning you over with her gorgeous looks and capturing your hearts with her camp performances.
- Starr Stallion, a 21-year-old from Michigan who teaches people to be confident, fierce, and bold through her theatrical drag numbers.
- Allegra Dee Love, a high energy, fun, dancing diva who loves to be silly, creative and pay homage to amazing Black female artists in her performances.
