Joy, sparkle, and high-heeled boots may not appear to be typical tools for climate activism, but for drag queen Pattie Gonia, they are essential in her fight for the planet. Pattie Gonia, also known as Wyn Wiley offstage, is a passionate environmental advocate who aims to make climate education and advocacy more engaging and accessible. She believes that injecting joy and fun into the climate movement is crucial for its success.
Pattie Gonia’s approach aligns with the growing trend of creative activism, which merges art and advocacy to reach a wider audience. Stephen Duncombe, co-founder of the Centre for Artistic Activism, emphasizes the importance of using creativity, humor, and unconventional methods like drag shows to engage people in environmental issues. This approach has been proven effective in various objectives and has been well-received by audiences.
In addition to adding a fun element to activism, Pattie Gonia is dedicated to breaking down the exclusivity often associated with environmental movements. She criticizes the high costs that make climate activism events financially inaccessible to many individuals. Instead, she collaborates with organizations like Outdoorist Oath to provide opportunities for diverse communities, including BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and femmes, to connect with nature through education and community initiatives.
Pattie Gonia emphasizes the importance of grassroots solutions and community engagement in driving meaningful change. By combining art and activism, she believes in creating emotional connections that can unite people not only in support of a cause but also with each other. Ultimately, she advocates for a more inclusive and joyful approach to climate activism, where everyone is empowered to make a difference.
