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.
Serenity Lockhart. (Dro Lopez-Fierce)Dro Lopez-Fierce
Serenity Lockhart
Age: 31
Community: Western Massachusetts
Their story: Serenity Lockhart is a drag performer who uses their performances to educate the community and raise money for causes important to the LGBTQ+ community.
Lockhart, who uses she and they pronouns, has been doing drag for about 12 years, and started out volunteering for the international nonprofit organization International Court System, one of the largest LGBTQ+ organizations in the world, raising money for organizations like the AIDS Foundation of Western Massachusetts and Northampton Pride. They realized that they loved the artistry and personal expression that goes into creating a drag character and continued from there, eventually hosting their own events.
Lockhart and their husband make everything they wear in their performances themselves.
Lockhart said while they do host adults-only events, many of their drag shows are meant to be welcoming to everyone and they keep the clothing and language appropriate for all ages to enjoy. They like to use their platform to educate the community about topics like consent, gender pronouns, acceptance and personal expression.
“I do events for everyone,” they said. “We try to inspire and share to everyone the importance of being themselves.” Educate on topics such as pronouns and consent. For our adult events, we make sure everyone is having a great time and try to grow the love and acceptance of our community.
In their words: “Drag is all about self expression. It’s important to use the platform to share your art, whichever it may be. Drag can be so many things, from fashion, to comedy, acting, music and so much more. Embrace your artistry. Don’t let anyone knock you down and try to take your shine from you. What you do is special and important!”
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.
