Photo Credit: Allen Halas
Ruthie
Dear Ruthie is proudly brought to you by C3 Designs — Award Winning Fine Jewelry. C3 Designs offers a variety of services performed in-house, including custom jewelry design, jewelry and watch repair, appraisal, pearl and bead stringing, engraving and flip guards. C3 Designs is the winner of the Jewelers of America 2019 CASE Award.
As the Pride Month comes to a close, I’d like to take a moment and thank the many allies of the LGBTQ+ community. There are so many straight folks in Milwaukee who support this community, it's truly mind blowing.
Living in a time where the country is so divided by political affiliation, it’s wonderful to see so many people who continue to make compassion and understanding a priority over hate and fear. It’s great to see our straight allies asking questions, hoping to learn and understand as much as they can about our community. (See the question below for an example.)
Thank you to everyone who made pride in Milwaukee a success! Let’s keep those positive vibes flowing all year!
Dear Ruthie,
Where do drag queens fit in the LGBTQ lettering? I think there are straight males that like to dress in women’s clothes. I don't know how any of this works.
Please help,
Aren't We All Just Humans?
Dear Human,
Thanks for the question, honey! I’m always happy to help our allies learn about our community and understand what we’re all about.
The abbreviation LGBTQ+ stand for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning and others. These terms describe people’s sexual orientation and/or gender identity.
Performing in drag is a job, hobby or interest—regardless of your sexual orientation or gender identification. Note the word “performing.” I’m strictly talking about entertaining in drag … not dressing for daily life as a part of one’s gender identity.
Drag is certainly an art but being an artist is, for the most part, a job, hobby or interest. It is not one’s sexual orientation and not someone’s gender identity. The term “drag queen” doesn’t have an initial in the LGBTQ+ abbreviation any more than does a dentist, banker, golf caddy, dog walker, singer, stamp collector or oil painter. While dentists, bankers, golf caddies and, yes, even drag queens may be members of the LGBTQ+ community, they are so because of how they identify and not because of their jobs, hobbies or interests.
Ruthie’s Social Calendar
June 29—Outdoor Movie & Food Truck Night at Drexel Town Square (8040 S. Sixth St., Oak Creek): Enjoy the cult classic “The Goonies” like never before during this change-of-pace movie night. Grab some grub at one of the food trucks and take in the live music before settling into your lawn chair for the outdoor film. The evening starts at 4 p.m.
July 2—KC and the Sunshine Band at BMO Harris Pavilion/Summerfest (200 N. Harbor Drive): One of the biggest bands of the ‘70s continues to be the powerhouse of fun they were decades ago. Join the party during the popular 7:30 p.m. concert. Nab your tickets early as this bash is sure to sell out. Simply go to www.summerfest.com to get yours.
July 2—Leather & Lace Anniversary Party at Crucible (3116 Commercial Ave., Madison): Dress to kill and you’ll receive a discount on the door charge of this popular party. Whether you prefer leather, lace, steampunk, vintage prom, corsets or punk, your garb is sure to grab attention. Doors open at 8 p.m., followed by an all-night array of DJs, house music, dancing, drinks and debauchery. See what Mad City has to offer during the daring night of decadence.
July 5—Circles of Recovery 12-Step Virtual Meeting via the Milwaukee LGBT Community Center: Summer can be a difficult time for those trying to stay clean and sober. If you’re looking for help, support and friendship, consider joining this group. Meeting every Tuesday from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., the Zoom meeting is facilitated by a recovery coach. See the calendar area of www.mkelgbt.org for logon information.
July 6—Bingo Game Show at Hamburger Mary’s (730 S. Fifth St.): Join me and one of the city’s favorite charities as we host a bawdy night of craziness! Raise money for a great cause and win terrific prizes during the 7:30 p.m. show that gives you the chance to star in the spotlight. Visit www.hamburgermarys.com/mke to hold your table.
Have a question for Ruthie? Want to share an event with her? Contact Ruthie at DearRuthie@ShepEx.com.
