Two drag kings and what they speak up for (silently)
Aristlowe may be a team, but only because they are both passionate about raising funds for the mental health charity 20Talk. That’s why they are going to take on the challenge of sitting in a 2m square box for 20 hours with no technology and no talking. Passionate, intimate silence. Far apart from each other.
This challenge will be a small look into the day of someone struggling with their mental health. Although it presents as a challenge for some, it offers a sobering glimpse into the isolating, lonely, and confronting reality of someone without the means to take care of their mental health.
All our kings will have are their own thoughts, a journal and a chair to sit on. We need you to believe in them.
So why are Boorloo’s most boisterous drag kings actually doing this?
Well, we recognise that we have all been touched in some way or another by the reality of mental health. Particularly as performers from marginalised backgrounds, and it’s unfortunately a common experience in the wider queer community as a whole. Both our kings have personal history struggling with their own mental health experience.
The statistics are alarming still.
Suicide still remains the leading cause of death for young people aged 15-44.
Only 2% of mental health funding goes towards prevention (Mental Health Commission 2022)
By working with 20 Hours for 20Talk, we aim to turn these statistics around.
Your contribution goes towards 20Talk's relatable prevention campaigns. They are a mental health charity that makes education cool and accessible, for young people by young people. We hope drag kings are a niche that can push for this cause in our own community.
Your generous donations go towards:
- Every $120 puts a young person through a one day Mental Health Maintenance course
- Expanding 20Talk's online resources and 60,000+ social media community
- Running large-scale interactive mental health events
By improving mental health literacy, removing harmful stigma, and encouraging professional help-seeking we are preventing people from getting people into crisis in the first place.
Thank you for taking the time to read this post and for donating to the cause. Hopefully this small challenge can help change someone’s life.
If you ever need to chat, your kings are always here.
We love you all, and thank you for your support. ❤️
I know you're gonna be the bestest at this Lowe Bottomy #lowesweep