Peppermint, the beloved star from RuPaul’s Drag Race, and comedian Michelle Buteau share their insights on the essential role of hope and joy for the LGBTQ+ community in the face of political adversity. Their thoughts are especially poignant as they navigate the current political climate, where LGBTQ+ rights are under threat.
Michelle Buteau's comedy-drama, Survival of the Thickest, has triumphantly returned to Netflix for a second season. Though Buteau penned the series well before the political landscape changed, its focus on celebrating queer joy is more relevant than ever.
The Power of Joy
"I honestly couldn't have predicted the political upheaval and the attacks on our community," Buteau reflects. "Every generation faces its own struggles, and I drew from my personal experiences to create a narrative that empowers, rather than traumatizes," she explains.
Recently, specific measures have been proposed to limit the rights of transgender individuals in various aspects of life, from military service to healthcare. Yet, Buteau's narrative in Survival of the Thickest is a testament to resilience and empowerment.
The series, based on Buteau's book of essays, follows Mavis Beaumont, a stylist piecing her life back together after a relationship betrayal. Season one introduced us to Mavis's journey of self-discovery and healing, aided by her close friends.
A Celebration of Community
As Mavis navigates the complexities of the fashion industry and the New York dating scene, she strives to make space for Black, plus-sized, and queer identities. Peppermint plays a significant role in the series, portraying Mavis’s close friend and a version of herself, who also owns a vibrant drag restaurant.
Despite challenges, Survival of the Thickest is ultimately a homage to community, chosen families, and self-acceptance. Both Peppermint and Buteau emphasize that this message is crucial now.
"Joy is an integral part of being hopeful," Peppermint asserts, considering the current era. "Hope is intertwined with joy, and in these times, we need a lot of both," she continues. "Joy empowers us to engage in difficult conversations and continue fighting for our rights."
With limited representation of trans joy in media, Peppermint praises Survival of the Thickest for its portrayal. "There's a decline in LGBTQ storylines across media, which mirrors the treatment of our community," she notes. "What people see shapes their perceptions, and I'm grateful for the chance to be visible as a Black trans woman on such a prominent platform."
Embracing Diversity
Buteau finds strength and positivity in creating a queer-centered show, showcasing the creativity and versatility of the community. "Posting, protesting, and donating are important, but creativity can be a powerful tool," she advises.
Emphasizing diversity, Buteau ensured that Survival of the Thickest was inclusive both in front of and behind the camera, with Black women directors and numerous queer collaborators. "Despite efforts to diminish diversity, I invite everyone to join in and collaborate, because it's enriching," she declares.
The second season of Survival of the Thickest is now available on Netflix. Share your thoughts with us in the comments, and let’s keep the discussion respectful and uplifting.
Enjoy the show and let's celebrate the strength and joy within our community.
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