Amid a swirl of vibrant colors and spirited debate, the Oregon House of Representatives opened with an unprecedented drag performance that has ignited both applause and outrage.

At a Glance

• A Black drag performance took place on the Oregon House Floor, receiving mixed reactions from state representatives.
• Performers Isaiah Esquire and Aqua Flora were invited by State Rep. Travis Nelson, the first openly LGBTQ African American member of the House.
• House Minority Leader Rep. Christine Drazan criticized the performance, calling it inappropriate for the chamber.
• The resolution linked to the event passed with a 34-9 vote, supported by only one Republican.

An Unprecedented Opening Ceremony

The Oregon House of Representatives took an unconventional step by featuring a Black drag performance to celebrate Pride Month. Isaiah Esquire and Aqua Flora dazzled audience members with their lip-sync and dance routines, setting a controversial yet memorable start to the session. This eye-catching spectacle, invited by Rep. Travis Nelson, marked a significant moment for the LGBTQ community, acknowledging Oregon’s storied history of Black drag culture.

While the atmosphere brimmed with support from many House members, chiefly among Democrats, the performance was not without its share of criticism. House Minority Leader Christine Drazan lambasted the act, declaring it unsuited for a legislative chamber. Her sentiments echoed the concerns of many Republicans, who argued the performance detracted from the solemnity and purpose of the House floor.

Cultural Celebration or Partisan Spectacle?

Republican Leader Christine Drazan’s strong disapproval highlighted a divide within the chamber. “Yesterday’s ill-advised performance broke our chamber protocols and standards for opening ceremonies in the Oregon House of Representatives,” she stated. Drazan emphasized that such performances, reflecting ostentatious political and social symbols, are below the chamber’s dignity.

The debate extended beyond mere disapproval, with accusations of wasted legislative time and taxpayer money. However, Rep. Travis Nelson dispelled the fiscal myth, insisting no public funds were used. He highlighted the performance’s brevity, likening it to lengthier debates on trivial matters like Oregon’s official steak, which did not spark similar backlash.

A Tradition of Civic Participation

Supported by a majority, the performance was part of a session honoring Black drag history through House Concurrent Resolution 3. Speaker Pro Tempore David Gomberg acknowledged the standing ovation it received, remarking, “Normally, colleagues, we don’t applaud during performances, but there are times when I think exceptions are appropriate.”

“I’d like to take a moment to extend deep gratitude and recognition to the incredible drag performers who joined us this morning. Aqua Flora and Isaiah Esquire joined us on the House floor today in addition to all of the LGBTQ+ folks in the building. Your presence, artistry and courage are a powerful reminder of the joy, resilience and cultural impact of drag in Oregon and beyond. Thank you for sharing your light with us this morning. It’s an honor to have you here.” – Democratic Rep. Travis Nelson.

The House’s agenda may strike some as being infused with political spectacle, yet its organizers emphasize the importance of representation. Rep. Nelson asserted the performance as both civic participation and free speech, fundamental tenets when welcoming diverse cultural expressions on the legislative platform.