ZEKE Magazine: Spring 2023.2

Michael Snyder
The Queens of Queen City | Maryland, United States
America is, by admission
of most of its political
leaders, a nation shaped
by deeply held religious
beliefs and cultural values. And
perhaps nowhere is this truer than
in Appalachia, a mountainous swath
of America’s eastern midsection,
known for its Rust Belt work ethic
and its Bible Belt conservatism.
Here, Cumberland, Maryland was
once the “Queen City,” a hub of
industry and culture. But the story
of Cumberland has paralleled that
of many once-great cities throughout
the Appalachian region: the gradual
departure of industry and, with it, a
slow descent into economic stagnation
and cultural decline.
But even here, flowers are
growing in the cracked pavement:
a queer community has banded
together, created a thriving drag
scene, and—against all odds—built
the largest Pride movement in the
region. The “Queens of Queen City”
is a documentary project exploring
the courage, risks, and repercussions
of openly expressing LGBTQ identities
in rural, conservative America.
The project charts the course of this
queer community over five years as
they struggle with loss, bigotry, and
acts of arson, to build an inclusive,
vibrant community.
Top: Claire, Mary Jane, and Aradia
cool off in a local swimming hole
outside of Cumberland, MD. “I
grew up outside.” Says Aradia. “I
am just as country as anybody is.”
Bottom: Iva Fetish blow dries their
nails during a drag pageant at
the Embassy Theatre. “I’m a dirty
Queen.” She says. “I’m a dirty
girl. I’m not like one of these pretty
things here.” She says, pointing
toward the pictures on the wall.
“It’s OK though honey, I love myself
anyway. I embrace my bad side.”
ZEKE SPRING 2023/ 37