Drag queen and environmental advocate Pattie Gonia has embarked on a remarkable journey, hiking 100 miles in full drag to raise $1 million for nonprofit organizations focused on diversity and environmental stewardship. The trek commenced in Marin County and features a challenging crossing over the Golden Gate Bridge. It will culminate in a spectacular drag show at The Warfield on December 6.
In the initial three days of this ambitious endeavor, Pattie has already raised over $600,000 through a GoFundMe campaign, garnering support from more than 11,700 donors, according to the San Francisco Chronicle. The funds will benefit eight charities dedicated to promoting equity and environmentalism, including the Eastern Sierra Conservation Corp, The Children’s Home Project, and Brave Trails.
Pattie expressed her commitment to increasing awareness of diversity within outdoor spaces. In a recent Instagram post, she stated, “I will do anything to support these incredible nonprofits that do so much work to diversify the outdoors,” emphasizing the importance of inclusion in nature.
The organizations receiving support through this initiative vary widely, addressing different facets of environmental and social equity. Other beneficiaries include Queer Outdoor Expedition Scholarships, Outdoorist Oath, Intersectional Environmental Film/Music Project, Camp Kitaki, and Vamanos Outside.
This undertaking holds special significance for Pattie, who has been an outspoken critic of policies that hinder diversity and inclusion, particularly during the previous administration. Last month, she attended an LGBTQ+ tribute event wearing a trans Pride flag dress. Her advocacy efforts have included participation in a notable demonstration in Yosemite Valley, where activists hung a trans Pride flag from El Capitan.
Pattie champions joy as a pivotal element of activism, stating, “Joy is strategy. Joy is an inside job.” This philosophy informs her performances and her activism, highlighting how joy can drive social change. Attendees at The Warfield can anticipate “the queerest holiday show,” featuring local drag talent in a vibrant celebration as Pattie concludes her journey with this final performance.
The community has praised Pattie not only for her activism but also for her artistic contributions to both the drag and environmental movements. Beyond her role as a drag performer, Pattie is also a musician with plans for future collaborations. In her commitment to the cause, she wrote on social media, “my name is pattie gonia and i’m backpacking 100 miles in drag to try to raise $1,000,000 for 8 outdoor nonprofits. here goes nothing.”
As her trek progresses, Pattie Gonia continues to inspire, blending performance art with a powerful message of inclusion and environmental responsibility.
