Drag Queens Shine at the 2024 Olympics Opening Ceremony

The 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris kicked off with a spectacular opening ceremony that has since ignited passionate discussions on social media. At the heart of the conversation is the unprecedented inclusion of drag queens and a controversial tableau reminiscent of Leonardo da Vinci’s "The Last Supper."

This four-hour extravaganza along the Seine River featured global icons such as Celine Dion and Lady Gaga, both revered figures in the LGBTQ+ community. The ceremony seamlessly blended historic and modern French culture, highlighting the vibrant and influential role of the French LGBTQ+ community.

A standout moment was the appearance of renowned drag queens Nicky Doll, Paloma, Piche, and Giselle Palmer from "RuPaul's Drag Race" and its French iteration. Le Filip, the recent winner of “Drag Race France,” expressed immense pride at the scale and representation of queer culture in the ceremony. "I thought it would be a five-minute drag event with queer representation. I was amazed. It felt like a crowning all over again," they said.

Despite the overwhelming joy and pride from many, a scene that evoked "The Last Supper" drew significant backlash from religious conservatives and far-right politicians. Critics, like Marion Maréchal and Eduard Habsburg, denounced the performance as disrespectful to Christian traditions. The performance also sparked controversy, drawing criticism from the Australian Christian Lobby (ACL). As per usual, the ACL went into meltdown, condemning the act and claiming it mocked the Last Supper and disrespected Christian values. In response, the official Olympics account clarified that the performance symbolized the absurdity of violence through the lens of Dionysus, a Greek god.

As supporters of the LGBTQ+ community, it is crucial to recognize the courage and significance of this representation. The true message of the ceremony lies in its celebration of diversity and inclusivity, reflecting the spirit of the Olympics. The resemblance to "The Last Supper" was unintentional, according to artistic director Thomas Jolly, yet it sparked a necessary conversation about acceptance and respect.

Le Filip humorously addressed the criticism, suggesting it came from those who felt excluded from the celebration. This sentiment underscores the broader issue of societal exclusion and the need for greater inclusivity.

James Leperlier, President of Inter-LGBT, pointed out the gap between the ceremony's inclusivity and the realities faced by the LGBTQ+ community in France. Legal and societal challenges, especially for transgender individuals, highlight the ongoing struggle for equality and acceptance.

The resurgence of drag and voguing in France serves as a powerful statement of defiance and identity for many marginalized communities. For gay Black and Arab youths from less affluent and religiously conservative suburbs, these events provide a crucial space for self-expression and safety.

The controversy surrounding the opening ceremony ultimately reflects broader societal tensions. However, it also presents an opportunity to embrace and celebrate the principles of love, compassion, and inclusivity. The message of the show is freedom, and it's a powerful postcard for a future where everyone, regardless of their background or identity, can feel valued and loved.

In supporting the LGBTQ+ community, let us celebrate this momentous event and continue advocating for a world where diversity is not just accepted but celebrated.

You can learn more about the historical art controversy of the "Last Supper" by reading our article from last week, "A Queer Feast Through the Ages," available here.

Editor's Note:
In light of the recent discussions sparked by the 2024 Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony, we'd like to offer some clarifications. The ceremony featured a diverse and inclusive showcase, including a performance by drag queens that sparked controversy due to a tableau resembling Leonardo da Vinci’s "The Last Supper." Below, Lady Francis provides a thoughtful perspective on the event, addressing the misconceptions and highlighting the historical and cultural significance of the performance.

Dearest Gentle Reader,

I’m about to step on some toes regarding the Opening Ceremony at the Paris Olympics.

The headless woman was Marie Antoinette. She ruled over France and was found guilty of treason, conspiracy, and stealing from the country. Sound familiar?

Also, it was not the Last Supper. It was a depiction of an ancient Greek Bacchanal... because, you know, the Olympics are ancient and Greek. Surprise!

If you didn’t know, a Bacchanalia is an uncontrollably promiscuous, extravagant, and loud party. These parties often spanned several days and honored the god of wine, Bacchus (the blue guy covered in grapevine). He is also known as Dionysus, the Greek god of fertility, later revered as the god of wine and pleasure.

Finally, it was not Death on a pale horse. It was Sequana, Goddess of the Seine, the river in which the boat procession took place. She was meant to represent the Olympic spirit and Sequana.

If some of you weren’t so busy trying to end the Department of Education, you might know this. Loosen the clutch on your pearls.

Yours truly, Lady Francis

“Paris is back on its feet, jubilant, flamboyant, creative, and open. Free,” - Thomas Jolly, the artistic director.

Image Source: Starobserver