TED Talk by Patty Gonia

Introduction

• Speaker: Patty Gonia, a drag queen
• Audience also in 'Ted drag'
  • Business casual attire, glasses, tote bags
  • Some wearing Patagonia vest merch
• Speech involves a light roast on audience's attire
• Dress made from upcycled materials; theme of climate awareness

The Art of Drag

• Drag as an invitation to build new futures through creativity, diversity, joy
• Patty Gonia's personal drag journey started 6 years ago
  • Began during a backpacking trip amidst a quarter-life crisis
  • Developed a community of over a million outdoor and climate enthusiasts
  • Facilitates outdoor activities for queer connections to the planet

Drag and Climate Movement

• Earth is in its 'flop era', needs re-envisioning
• Drag can inspire climate action through creativity
• Misconception: Drag hides true identity; it actually reveals it
• Diversity is key to finding solutions in the climate dilemma

Personal Experience and Achievements

• Met a famous environmentalist who suggested leaving "gay stuff" out of climate work
  • Contrarily, drag and identity have raised $2.5 million for climate action
• Many in the climate movement feel unable to be their true selves
• Desire for a supportive, diverse climate movement community
• Metaphor of a well-nurtured meadow versus a well-oiled machine

Historical Context: Drag and Queer Rights Movement

• Drag performers and trans people pivotal in organizing and protesting in the queer rights movement
• Turned pain into joy to attract more support

The Role of Joy in Climate Action

• Problem: Lack of joy in the climate movement
• Joy is strategic; it inspires action and momentum
• Encouragement to reconnect with nature
• Joy through collaboration and celebration
• Joy makes climate movement irresistible

Conclusion

• Creativity, diversity, and joy are essential for an effective climate movement
• Final reminder: "Climate change is not a drag"
• Thank you to the audience