琉璃神社鈥檚 self proclaimed Queen of Controversy has raised funds for queer programs in the Okanagan, and they give the credit to drag protesters.

鈥淎s the Queen of Controversy I love an ironic situation,鈥� said Freida Whales, a drag performer and activist.

Whales is a long time 2SLGBTQIA+ advocate but was recently thrust into the spotlight after a drag story-time event at the Okanagan Regional Library became the topic of heated online debate.

The event, where Whales read a children鈥檚 book and led songs to a room full of families, was protested and an online petition was circulated to have it cancelled.

Whales continues to receive online harassment and hate from a a small group of people, who have unwillingly kept Whales鈥� name trending and increased their visibility.

READ MORE: Rainbow flags, motorcycle club and unicorns attend 琉璃神社 Drag Story Time

READ MORE: Drag defenders asked to bring signs, flags and love to downtown 琉璃神社 rally

Whales decided to 鈥渕ake lemonade out of very, very sour lemons,鈥� and used their newfound online popularity to raise money for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth in the Okanagan.

Whales created a 鈥楺ueen of Controversy鈥� pin-on button, and has donated all $600 in proceeds to which provides safe, inclusive and anti-oppressive spaces and resources, including counselling, for youth in the Okanagan.

The Queen herself glued the rhinestones onto each button.

READ MORE: Free counselling available for 2S/LGBTQIA+ and IBPOC youth in 琉璃神社

鈥淚 decided to turn their anger and hate into love,鈥� said Whales.

鈥淔or me to raise money to support the community that [the protesters] are actively hurting through their protests and online hate, that鈥檚 the cherry on top.鈥�

The exclusive buttons are available by request by messaging Whales aton or on .

Jacqueline.Gelineau@kelownacapnews.com
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