**Sasha Colby: Beyond Just Drag**
Sasha Colby didn't plan on becoming "your favorite drag queen's favorite drag queen," but somehow, that's exactly what she did. Her journey wasn't mapped out; it was fueled by her genuine charisma and undeniable talent.
She laughs, recalling a key moment during her "Meet The Queens" promo: "I was so stoned." It was then she casually tossed out, "your favorite drag queen's favorite drag queen," a phrase that so perfectly captures her unique status. "It came from some deep corner up here," she says, tapping her head. Fans and fellow drag icons alike loved it. Even RuPaul calls her "the drag queen's drag queen." For Sasha, though, that's just one chapter in her incredible story.
**The Stripped II Tour: A Transformational Journey**
As an openly trans winner from "RuPaul's Drag Race," Sasha Colby's set out on another ambitious adventure: her "Stripped II" tour. It kicks off on September 16 in Seattle, winding up in Hawaii—a sweet homecoming showcasing her creative genius.
"I'm thrilled about hitting this road again," Sasha says, excitement in her voice. This year's tour isn't just longer, expanding from 23 cities last year up over 30 stops now; it also carries a powerful message. It's about making an impact, spreading positivity.
"This tour's all about fun, escapism, and magic," she explains. With so much going on in today's crazy times, Sasha's performances offer a much-needed burst joy and hope.
**Drag as Protest: Resilience and Joy**
"Doing drag, it's a kind protest," Sasha confidently states. For her, drag stands as a potent medium: it facilitates change, art, and storytelling. Her performances honor her Native Hawaiian roots, putting a spotlight on trans and queer histories that media often overlooks.
"I love sharing how Native Hawaiians historically revered trans and nonbinary individuals," she notes, weaving together cultural and queer threads that fuel her art.
The "Stripped II" tour celebrates cultural pride, sex positivity, and gender fluidity. "It challenges perceptions about what's sexy, queer, or straight," Sasha explains, aiming broaden understanding and acceptance among her audiences.
**Visibility and Keeping It Real**
Sasha's rise has made her an icon—trans joy and resilience personified. But she's candid about its challenges. "I try not live up role model status," she admits. "I'm nowhere near perfect, but I see vulnerability as a strength."
Every flawless performance hides vulnerabilities and struggles. Yet, Sasha embraces her imperfect journey, recognizing it as ever-evolving.
In today's online age, community forms digitally too. "When we're not there physically, our online presence becomes vital," she stresses, acknowledging virtual connections' power.
**Crafting a Legacy: Stories that Matter**
"Maybe it's just how I was raised," Sasha muses on her activism drive. Her life in an occupied island nation fuels her truth-focused passion. "I'm learning I don't always have be right, just happy. But, let me be honest, being right does make me happy," she chuckles.
Her ties—cultural and queer—run deep. "Being queer and trans connected me back with my Hawaiian roots," she shares, recalling how trans hula dancers inspired her.
Central her philosophy: Hawaiian idea that "kana" (purpose) aligns with "kulana" (community responsibility). "Knowing your purpose helps define your role in community," she explains.
Looking ahead, Sasha's all optimism. "Sky's limit," she grins. Her aim? Keep telling stories through varied mediums, urging trans and queer folk keep going. "Existing ruffles feathers—let's keep doing it."
To her younger self, Sasha tenderly says: "Even when you feel boxed in, stay tough. You're stubborn, resourceful. You've got this."
She takes pride not just in achievements but her self-sufficiency. "After years gig work, autopaying bills feels like a win trans women color," she nods.
Sasha Colby, you remind us all that joy itself powerful resistance. By sharing authentic stories, we inspire communities everywhere.
