Drag queen and environmental advocate Pattie Gonia has embarked on an ambitious journey, backpacking 100 miles in full drag to raise $1 million for diverse nonprofit organizations. This initiative, which started in Marin County, includes a challenging trek over the Golden Gate Bridge and will culminate in a vibrant drag show at The Warfield on December 6.
In just three days since the trek began, Pattie has already raised over $600,000 through a GoFundMe campaign, attracting support from more than 11,700 donors, as reported by the San Francisco Chronicle. The funds will benefit eight charities dedicated to promoting equity and environmentalism, including the Eastern Sierra Conservation Corp, The Children’s Home Project, and Brave Trails.
Pattie aims to raise awareness about the importance of diversity in outdoor spaces. In an Instagram update, she stated, “I will do anything to support these incredible nonprofits that do so much work to diversify the outdoors,” emphasizing her commitment to this cause. Other organizations receiving support include Queer Outdoor Expedition Scholarships, Outdoorist Oath, Intersectional Environmental Film/Music Project, Camp Kitaki, and Vamanos Outside.
This initiative holds personal significance for Pattie, who has openly criticized previous policies undermining diversity and inclusion. Last month, she appeared at an LGBTQ+ tribute event dressed in a trans Pride flag gown, following a demonstration in Yosemite Valley where activists displayed a trans Pride flag on El Capitan, as highlighted by the Chronicle.
Pattie champions joy as a fundamental aspect of activism. “Joy is strategy. Joy is an inside job,” she remarked in an interview with The Standard. This philosophy is central to her performances and her message, illustrating the powerful role of joy in advocating for social change. At The Warfield, attendees can anticipate “the queerest holiday show,” featuring an array of Bay Area drag talent, marking the finale of her journey with a celebratory drag show.
The response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive, recognizing Pattie’s dual impact as both an advocate for environmental causes and a prominent figure in the drag scene. Beyond her performances, Pattie is also a musician with plans for future collaborations. In a recent post on social media, she expressed her determination: “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.”
This unique fundraising effort not only highlights the challenges of diversity in outdoor spaces but also serves as a powerful reminder of the joy and creativity that can emerge through activism. As Pattie continues her journey, she reinforces the importance of community support in fostering a more inclusive and environmentally conscious society.
