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Committee hears resolution recognizing Oregon’s Black drag history
Summary
House Resolution 3 (dash‑1) recognizing and honoring Oregon's history of Black drag performers drew testimony from lawmakers and community members, who described cultural, charitable and civil‑rights roles played by performers and urged the committee to move the resolution during Black History Month.
The House Committee on Rules heard public testimony Feb. 19 on House Resolution 3, a ceremonial resolution recognizing Oregon's Black drag community and, with a dash‑1 amendment, revising and adding whereas clauses to broaden the resolution's coverage.
Representative Travis Nelson (House District 44) introduced the measure and said the resolution recognizes and celebrates “Oregon's vibrant history of black drag performers” and that the dash‑1 amendment added additional individuals the resolution should recognize. “This resolution is not just a statement of acknowledgment, but a celebration of resilience, creativity, and community impact,” Nelson told the committee.
Community witnesses described the role of Black drag artists as cultural leaders and organizers. Kevin Cook, who performs as Poison Waters and said he hosts shows at Darcelle's and teaches Portland drag history at Portland Community College, urged support and described the craft as both “entertaining” and “educational and inspiring.” Henry Felton (Kimber Kay Shade) recounted the mentorship and community role of performers such as Tony Monet and named historical local figures he said shaped the scene.
Seth Johnson, transgender justice program manager at Basic Rights Oregon, told the committee Black drag entertainers have led charitable fundraising and community organizing and noted that “this resolution is for our community here in Oregon, specifically our trans black drag entertainers,” who he said are facing additional attacks. Anthony Barber (Diva Simone Slaughter) described decades of fundraising work for HIV/AIDS, recovery and victim services.
The committee closed the public hearing after the witnesses finished and did not record a committee vote in the hearing transcript. Sponsors urged prompt floor consideration as a Black History Month recognition.
