Pattie Gonia, a drag queen and environmental activist, is embarking on an extraordinary journey to raise $1 million for nonprofit organizations that promote diversity and environmental stewardship. This ambitious trek commenced in Marin County and includes a challenging crossing of the Golden Gate Bridge, culminating in a performance at The Warfield on December 6, 2023.
In just three days since the kickoff of this initiative, Gonia has already raised over $600,000 through a GoFundMe campaign, with contributions from more than 11,700 donors, as reported by KRON4 News. The funds will benefit eight charities focused on improving equity and environmental issues, including the Eastern Sierra Conservation Corp and the Children’s Home Project. Gonia has expressed a dual aim for this fundraising effort: to secure financial support and to elevate awareness about the need for diversity in outdoor spaces.
Gonia’s commitment to these causes is personal and profound. She has been an outspoken critic of policies that hinder inclusion, particularly during the previous administration. This activism recently included her appearance at an LGBTQ+ tribute event, where she wore a dress adorned with the trans Pride flag. Her previous demonstration in Yosemite Valley saw activists displaying the same flag on El Capitan, drawing attention to issues faced by the community.
Joy as a Strategy for Change
Gonia embraces the notion that joy is a powerful tool in activism. In her own words, “Joy is strategy. Joy is an inside job.” This philosophy influences both her performances and her broader message, underscoring the importance of joy in social movements. At The Warfield, attendees can look forward to what Gonia describes as “the queerest holiday show,” featuring a collaborative celebration of Bay Area drag talent.
The broader community has showered praise on Gonia for her artistic contributions as well as her advocacy work. Beyond drag performances, Gonia is also a musician, hinting at upcoming collaborations in her artistic journey. Her determination is clear in a recent social media post where she stated, “my name is pattie gonia and i’m backpacking 100 miles in drag to try to raise $1,000,000 for 8 outdoor nonprofits. here goes nothing.”
Supporting Diverse Causes
The organizations benefiting from Gonia’s efforts reflect a diverse range of missions. These include Brave Trails, which focuses on empowering LGBTQ+ youth through outdoor programs, and Vamanos Outside, aimed at increasing accessibility to nature for underrepresented communities. The initiative holds particular significance in a time when outdoor spaces are increasingly being recognized as areas needing more inclusivity.
As Gonia continues her remarkable trek, the support she has garnered illustrates a collective desire for change and representation in outdoor environments. With her blend of artistry and activism, Pattie Gonia is not just raising funds but also inspiring a movement toward greater equity and environmental responsibility. The culmination of her efforts at The Warfield promises to be a celebration of both joy and purpose, spotlighting issues that resonate deeply within the community.
