Drag or Feather Pride Flag

The Feather Pride Flag is a symbol for the drag community. Artist Sean Campbell created it in 1999.

The phoenix represents the rebirth of the LGBTI+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex +) community. Meanwhile, as a mythical firebird it also stands for the ‘fires of passion’ the drag community had in the early days of HIV [and] AIDS epidemic when drag artists were key fundraisers.

Tris Reid-Smith/GSN

What Does It Mean to Do Drag or Feather?

While “drag” typically refers to the performance art where individuals exaggerate gender presentations for entertainment, “feather” is a term that has emerged in some communities to describe a more subtle or fluid expression of gender, often incorporating elements of drag but without the dramatic transformations. The term “feather” may represent a softer, more nuanced version of gender performance, often blending masculinity and femininity in a less overt way.

Both drag and feather share a common thread of challenging traditional gender norms, offering space for individuals to explore and express gender in creative, empowering ways. However, drag is often more overt and theatrical, while feather tends to be subtler, emphasizing a more graceful, flowing approach to gender expression. The use of “feather” is still evolving and may vary across different communities or contexts.