The Queens of Queen City

Cumberland, MD was once the “Queen City”, a hub of industry and culture in Appalachia. But the story of Cumberland has paralleled that of many once-great cities throughout the Appalachian region: the gradual departure of industry and, with it, a slow descent into economic stagnation and cultural rigidity. But even here, flowers grow in the cracked pavement: a queer community has banded together, found its identity, and created a thriving drag scene. The “Queens of Queen City” is an ongoing documentary and portraiture project exploring the courage, risks, and repercussions of openly expressing LGBTQ identities in rural, conservative America.

As a native to Appalachia myself I have been deeply inspired by the courage of this community and have spent the last 10 years getting to know its members, hearing their stories, and shooting images. My hope is that, in shining a light on both the struggles and joys of this community, it will inspire individuals elsewhere in rural America to embrace and express their chosen gender identities.