After years of neglect, the problem of abused, missing, and murdered Native Americans is coming to the attention of the media and lawmakers. However, the way the subject is treated serves as a troubling case study about the intersection of gender politics and science.
Hart Van Denburg/CPR News
Drag queens Dixie Krystals, right, and Lala Shearz wave to motorists on Colfax Avenue as they attract attention for the COVID-19 vaccination clinic being offered by the Center on Colfax, May 19, 2021. The Center offers support and resources for Colorado’s LGBTQ community. The clinic was open to anyone.
In a bright rainbow dress, high heels, and a towering wig, LaLa Shearz called to people on the sidewalk outside The Center on Colfax, “Hi! Come get vaccinated!”
Next to Shearz, fellow Denver drag queen, Dixie Krystals, fluttered her hand fan. They greeted everyone who came to a pop-up COVID-19 vaccine clinic at the LGBTQ community center at the end of May. They even convinced some people passing by to get a shot.