_Happy Birthday to the Queen of Drag: Marsha P. Johnson’s Legacy Lives On_
Today, August 15th, marks the birthday of the incomparable Marsha P. Johnson, a true pioneer and founder of the modern drag movement. A tireless advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and a shining star of the 1960s and 1970s drag scene, Marsha’s legacy continues to inspire and empower generations of performers and activists.
_Early Life and Career_
Born Malcolm Michaels Jr. in 1945, Marsha grew up in Elizabeth, New Jersey, and began exploring her gender identity and expression at a young age. She moved to New York City’s Greenwich Village in the 1960s, where she became a fixture of the burgeoning drag scene.
_Founding Mother of Drag_
Alongside fellow legends Sylvia Rivera and Miss Major Griffin-Gracy, Marsha co-founded the Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries (STAR), a groundbreaking organization dedicated to supporting homeless LGBTQ+ youth and advocating for their rights.
_Stonewall and Beyond_
Marsha was a key figure in the 1969 Stonewall riots, a pivotal moment in the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement. Her bravery and resilience in the face of police brutality and oppression helped galvanize the community and pave the way for future activism.
_Legacy and Impact_
Marsha’s influence extends far beyond her own performances and activism. She has inspired countless drag performers, including icons like RuPaul and Bianca Del Rio, and continues to be celebrated as a trailblazer and role model.
_Remembering Marsha_
As we celebrate Marsha’s birthday, we honor her memory and continue her work towards a more inclusive and accepting world. Her spirit lives on through the countless lives she touched and the generations of performers and activists she inspired.
_Happy Birthday, Marsha!_
