Divina de Campo, most widely known for finishing runner-up in RuPauls’s Drag Race UK, is using her art form to challenge societal norms. Throughout the episode Frank and Divina discuss how the art form, which faces huge criticism, is able to create a more accepting society.
Hearing Divina’s story first-hand, from a happy childhood in West Yorkshire to burgeoining performing in North Wales, gives an insight into her journey. “Rolling around in jam” at university was all part of the making of Divina, the Drag Queen we have all come to know and love.
Despite being rooted in British culture, performers are facing accusations from right-wing commentators who claim that Drag Queen Story Time is being used to ‘groom’ and ‘sexualise’ children. Divina challenges her critics head on and shares, quite honestly, how it feels to have a whole community turned against you. This did not only impact her business but, understandably, mental health too.
This feels even more pertinent in the wake of far-right race riots across the UK over the last few weeks. Divina discusses how the mobilisation of mobs is directly linked to the myths which we have been told. Whether it be Trump, Farage or Musk, the objective is the same. Divide.
Those seeking to distract voters from the real issues plaguing our society are making a meal out of gender in sport. Divina makes no bones about explaining what this means for society as a whole, and how the attacks are not limited to marginalised groups. That is just where they begin.
This episode takes a broadbrush view of the UK and its attitudes towards LGBTIQA+ people, but uses the personal experience of Divina de Campo to understand how the personal becomes political. Doing so has not brought success for Divina, in fact quite the opposite. Challenging the status quo can limit work opportunities yet Divina is determines to take a stand for what is right.
So, what are you waiting for? Tune in now and hear all that Divina and Frank had to discuss!
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