Navajo drag queens from across Dinetah came together in Window Rock, Arizona, on Dec. 14 to celebrate Christmas and raise money for scholarships. Drag shows have become more popular on the Navajo Nation over the years, and since 2018, Diné Pride has hosted LGBTQ+ events in Indian Country with the goal of “honoring & celebrating our LGBTQ+ relatives.” More than 200 people attended the Diné Pride Christmas Drag Show Benefit. This year’s theme was “Red and Turquoise.” For 53-year-old Paige Smith, the show had special significance: It marked the first time her mother and sister had ever seen her perform. All proceeds went to the Diné Pride LGBTQ+ Youth Scholarship Fund.

Jolene Yazzie is an editorial intern at High Country News. Email us at [email protected]. Follow @joleneyazzie

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