Kelowna害羞草研究所檚 self proclaimed Queen of Controversy has raised funds for queer programs in the Okanagan, and they give the credit to drag protesters.
害羞草研究所淎s the Queen of Controversy I love an ironic situation,害羞草研究所 said Freida Whales, a drag performer and activist.
Whales is a long time 2SLGBTQIA+ advocate but was recently thrust into the spotlight after a drag story-time event at the Okanagan Regional Library became the topic of heated online debate.
The event, where Whales read a children害羞草研究所檚 book and led songs to a room full of families, was protested and an online petition was circulated to have it cancelled.
Whales continues to receive online harassment and hate from a a small group of people, who have unwillingly kept Whales害羞草研究所 name trending and increased their visibility.
READ MORE: Rainbow flags, motorcycle club and unicorns attend Kelowna Drag Story Time
READ MORE: Drag defenders asked to bring signs, flags and love to downtown Kelowna rally
Whales decided to 害羞草研究所渕ake lemonade out of very, very sour lemons,害羞草研究所 and used their newfound online popularity to raise money for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth in the Okanagan.
Whales created a 害羞草研究所楺ueen of Controversy害羞草研究所 pin-on button, and has donated all $600 in proceeds to which provides safe, inclusive and anti-oppressive spaces and resources, including counselling, for youth in the Okanagan.
The Queen herself glued the rhinestones onto each button.
READ MORE: Free counselling available for 2S/LGBTQIA+ and IBPOC youth in Kelowna
害羞草研究所淚 decided to turn their anger and hate into love,害羞草研究所 said Whales.
害羞草研究所淔or me to raise money to support the community that [the protesters] are actively hurting through their protests and online hate, that害羞草研究所檚 the cherry on top.害羞草研究所
The exclusive buttons are available by request by messaging Whales aton or on .
Jacqueline.Gelineau@kelownacapnews.com
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