Francheska / Kenya
“My name is Francheska from Nairobi Kenya.
Kenya fronts a progressive constitution since 2010 however homophobic Laws within its penal code in section 162 and 165 create a conducive environment for human rights violations against people who do not conform to heterosexuality.
To counter these challenges,I use drag culture which is an underground LGBTQ subculture that originated in Newyork United States,in 1920s and 30s in which people “walk” (i.e., compete) for trophies, prizes, and glory at events known as balls. Attendees dance, vogue, walk, pose, evaluate and support one another in one or more of the numerous drag and performance competition categories. Through this form of Art my friends and I kenyanized it and established a queer social space for young queer folks therefore creating an avenue for wellbeing,enhancing self agency and support each other through creative musical performance like lipsyncing and runway modeling.Things haven’t gotten better for I have continued to experience first hand ostracization by my family and social institutions that have left me in dilemma, suicidal thoughts,homeless emotional blackmaile and violence.
Despite all this I am smiling through the rain for I know there are so many LGBTQ young folks who look at me as their source of strength and inspiration.”
