MassLive recently asked readers to identify people who are leaders from the LGBTQ+ community throughout the state, working to make a difference in their own area of interest, be it politics, education, business or the arts.
Profiles of these leaders will be published through the rest of February. These are people our readers have identified as inspirational, who may be doing good acts for their communities. They are being recognized for their accomplishments, leadership and commitment to inspire change.
Worcester’s Diva D uses her drag platform to cultivate inclusion in her community and create spaces where all can feel welcome. (Marvin Nuñez photo)Marvin Nuñez
Diva D (David Higginbottom)
Age: 32
Community: Worcester
Her story: Diva D (which is David backwards) uses her drag platform to cultivate inclusion in the Worcester area and create spaces where everyone can feel welcome. She uses she/her pronouns while in drag and he/him pronouns as David Higginbottom, when not performing.
Crowned 1st Majesty for Pride Worcester in 2023, the Grafton native’s mission is to entertain and connect with the community. Diva mainly does this by hosting a monthly drag show called “Diva’s Drinks & Dolls” at Reunion Tap and Table in Grafton.
Diva told MassLive that is was important for her to bring drag to where she grew up so that those “who haven’t seen art in this medium could get a firsthand experience in a way that felt comfortable to them.”
“From the soccer mom who secretly loves to watch RuPaul’s Drag Race to the newly out high schooler who wants to attend LGBTQIA+ events in their area, Diva’s Drinks & Dolls is a show where our only agenda is making sure everyone has a good time,” Diva added.
Growing up in Grafton wasn’t easy, according to the 32-year-old. Diva said she was often bullied for her “less-than-manly personality.” The drag queen also recalled being called “gay” before she knew what it meant.
“I think I hit my stride and learned to be proud of how I am in my later years at Grafton Memorial High,” said Diva, who joined theater and later studied Performing Arts at Worcester State University.
“While focusing on scenic design, I made sure to take advantage of opportunities to perform on stage,” she continued. “I have always dabbled in the art of drag, but it wasn’t until 2022 that Diva D was officially born.”
Diva D credits her past for developing her drag, which she said is her “contribution to forming an inclusive and joy-filled future for everyone.”
“I love personal and intimate performances where I can connect with the audience and make a difference,” she added. “I also love a good character number where I can be silly and make people forget about their problems for a moment.”
When she isn’t on stage, Diva is working with AdviniaCare to brighten people’s days at assisted living facilities in the area.
Diva has also work with Leadership Worcester to discus the mental wellbeing of artists and creatives in the city.
In partnering with Pride Worcester, the queen will be hosting a workshop to support local high school student in their goal to challenge prejudice and bias at the 2024 Connections Conference in Sutton.
In her words: “Art is personal and the more genuine you are, the more the audience will connect with you. So, find something you are passionate about and share that with your audience. Drag comes in all shapes and sizes, find what suits you and go for it.”
We’re always open to hearing about more inspiring people. If you’d like to suggest someone else who should be recognized, please fill out this form.
