Drag shows have a long-standing history within the U.S. military, dating back to World War II. These events, featuring men dressed as women, were not only allowed but actively celebrated as morale boosters during a time of conflict. The shows provided an outlet for troops to decompress and served as a safe space for members of the gay community who were serving undercover. However, recent developments have cast a shadow on this vibrant part of military history.
Starting on June 1, at the beginning of Pride month, the U.S. government implemented a ban on drag shows at military bases, citing regulations regarding the use of department resources. This decision has had a profound impact on the LGBTQ community at U.S. military bases in Japan, particularly those who were looking forward to celebrating Pride month with drag shows.
Organizers of these events have been forced to find alternative venues or, in some cases, cancel the shows altogether. Out in Oki, an organization supporting the LGBTQ+ community at Kadena Air Base, had to move their drag show off-base at the last minute. This change in venue has significantly affected their community, as the Pride drag show serves as their biggest annual event and fundraiser. With the change, they now expect to only break even financially.
Similarly, a private organization supporting the LGBTQ community at Yokota Air Base is determined to proceed with their drag show at an alternative venue, despite the prohibition. These shows, hosted by private organizations, rely on donations, ticket sales, and other events for funding. Even events organized by entities more closely tied to the military have been affected. For instance, a Pride ball event scheduled at the Yokota base had to modify its program to comply with the ban, replacing the drag show with a disco band.
The ban on drag shows at military bases has sparked criticism, with many considering it discriminatory and an affront to queer culture. It is seen as portraying an important aspect of queer expression as deviant and indecent. LGBTQ community members and their allies feel let down by the sudden change in policy, which contradicts the words of support they have received in the past.
While the Department of Defense has not directly addressed the reasons for the ban, they state that service members are allowed personal outlets and express pride in serving alongside all young Americans who defend the country.
As the LGBTQ community at U.S. military bases in Japan grapples with the ban, the voices of disappointment and determination remain strong. The struggle to celebrate their community and find spaces for self-expression continues, despite the setbacks. The banning of drag shows is a reminder that progress for LGBTQ rights and visibility can still face obstacles within institutions, and the fight for equality remains ongoing.
Sources:
- Sicard, S. (2023, July 7). The US military’s long history with drag. Yahoo! News.
- Kaneko, K. (2023, June 19). U.S. military drag show ban reverberates far away in Japan. The Japan Times. /
- Image: Irving Berlin’s “This Is the Army, Mr. Jones”, performed by cross-dressed U.S. Army soldiers