Drag queen Jackette Knightley fundraises for the community 

Drag queen Jackette Knightley won Pride’s arts and culture award named after late arts booster Larry T. Baza.

It’s the latest of many accolades she has received in the past five years for her work as a fundraiser.

A doctor by day and performer by night, the Los Angeles-based artist produces shows and music dedicated to many causes. She was at Urban Mo’s this year at a charity event which matched the name of the song she released in January, “Together You and Me Strong.” Both the song and event raised money for undocumented victims of the Los Angeles fires who are now at risk of deportation. 

She wrote the song during U.S. President Donald Trump’s inauguration while the fires raged outside in an effort to unite communities. It’s just the latest example of her responding to anxiety-inducing political situations with art that brings joy as well as raises funds to address those issues. 

She started her work in 2020 when many drag performers were out of work due to the pandemic. 

She knew advocacy became a big part of the drag scene in the ‘80s during the HIV epidemic when shows turned into community fundraisers for people suffering.

“COVID really mirrored that,” she said in a phone interview. 

She produced online shows while forming the group Queens and Kings for Causes. Funds helped different causes but also kept the performers employed. She hoped to reach new audiences as people sought hope amid their isolation. 

When she could not find the music she wanted to perform to, she began creating her own upbeat dance hits. Each month, proceeds from her songs and shows go to a different cause. 

She has also advocated at city council meetings in areas opposed to Pride celebrations, bringing her work across Southern California. 

Despite threats, she said, “Visibility is crucial.” 

To follow her events and shows, find her on Instagram @JacketteKnightly.