Brooklyn drag fundraiser parodying MAGA and Turning Point USA raises $25,000
The event, billed as Turning Point US Gay, included drag portrayals of Melania Trump, Erika Kirk, Pam Bondi and Kristi Noem
By Callum Wells
A Brooklyn drag show that sent up MAGA figures has raised more than $25,000 (£18,5200) for the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).
The event, billed as Turning Point US Gay, was staged as a send-up of Turning Point USA, the conservative student group founded by Charlie Kirk.
Kiki Ball-Change, who organised the night, performed as Melania Trump, Lauren Banall appeared as a version of Erika Kirk, while other acts included drag portrayals of Pam Bondi and Kristi Noem.
What took place during Turning Point US Gay?
More than 1,000 people attended in person, with additional viewers watching via livestream. Organisers increased capacity in the run-up to the show in response to demand.
Segments throughout the night referenced recent political flashpoints. Performers lip-synced to speeches associated with the Make America Great Again movement, while one routine centred on the viral ‘We Are Charlie Kirk’ track. There were also visual gags referencing Melania’s oversized hats.
In another segment, a performer mocked Bryon Noem by placing balloons under their top, referencing his leaked cross-dressing videos. Dancers in US flag outfits also appeared during the show.
The ACLU, which focuses on constitutional rights and civil liberties, has frequently been criticised by Donald Trump, who has described the organisation and similar groups as political opponents.
“Drag has always been political. We’re making it clear what’s at stake” – organiser Kiki Ball-Change on Turning Point US Gay
Speaking to LGBTQ Nation, Ball-Change said the show was intended to reflect how drag intersects with politics.
“Drag has always been political. We’re making it clear what’s at stake, [but] at the same time, the show wasn’t a downer. Ultimately, it’s about reminding people that the things we’re joking about have real-world consequences, and that queer people, especially, don’t have the luxury of separating politics from our everyday lives.”