Drag Queen Story Time: Building Community and Representation in Saginaw
In a lively turn of events, the Hoyt Library in Saginaw hosted a unique Halloween Drag Queen Story Hour, bringing together families and children for an afternoon of stories and fun. The event, held on October 29th, featured Dahlia Rivers, a local drag queen, who read four children's books to an eager audience.
Interactive Storytelling
The stories included:
- "Looking for a Jumbie"
- "I Need My Monster"
- "The Little Ghost Who Was A Quilt"
- "The Snurtch"
After each book, Rivers engaged the children with questions and drawing prompts, making the experience interactive and educational.
Dahlia Rivers' Journey
Rivers shared that the event reminded her of her childhood, filled with family gatherings and a sense of community. She emphasized the importance of such events in providing visibility and representation for the youth.
"Growing up, I didn't have this visibility. This is important for giving back to the community and showing our youth that they have a better future."
The journey of Dahlia Rivers in drag began in high school, with a choice between two costumes: a car crash victim or a poodle skirt. With her mother's encouragement, Rivers chose the poodle skirt, marking the birth of her drag persona. She believes in the power of positivity and existing authentically.
"You can try to change people's minds, but it's easier to just exist and put positivity out there."
Library's Mission
Jeffrey Easlick, a library assistant, highlighted the library's mission to provide programming that fosters reading and community understanding. He praised Rivers as a role model for standing up for who she is with integrity and courage. The library's efforts to include diverse programming reflect a broader trend in public libraries aiming to create inclusive spaces for all community members.
Upcoming Events
For those interested in more events, Rivers mentioned Drag Queen Bingo, a PG-13 event held every other month at the Historic Masonic Temple of Bay City. This event offers another opportunity for the community to engage with drag performers in a fun and entertaining setting.