Drag Queen Pattie Gonia Hikes 100 Miles to Raise $1 Million

Pattie Gonia, a drag queen and environmental advocate, is undertaking a remarkable journey to raise $1 million for nonprofit organizations focused on diversity and environmentalism. Beginning her trek in Marin County, California, Pattie is backpacking 100 miles in full drag, with the route featuring a notable crossing of the Golden Gate Bridge. The expedition will conclude with a drag show at The Warfield on December 6.

In just three days since the start of this ambitious project, Pattie has already raised over $600,000 through a GoFundMe campaign, attracting support from more than 11,700 donors, according to KRON4 News. The funds are earmarked for eight charities, including the Eastern Sierra Conservation Corp, The Children’s Home Project, and Brave Trails, among others. Pattie’s journey is not only a fundraising effort but also a platform to promote inclusivity in outdoor activities.

Pattie has expressed her commitment to these causes through social media, emphasizing the importance of diversity in outdoor spaces. In an Instagram post, she stated, “I will do anything to support these incredible nonprofits that do so much work to diversify the outdoors,” as reported by the San Francisco Chronicle.

Advocacy and Joy in Activism

The significance of this initiative is deeply personal for Pattie, who has been a vocal critic of policies that undermine diversity, particularly during the previous administration. Last month, she showcased her advocacy at an LGBTQ+ tribute event by wearing a dress adorned with a trans Pride flag, following a demonstration in Yosemite Valley where activists displayed a trans Pride flag from El Capitan.

Pattie champions joy as a vital component of activism. She told The Standard, “Joy is strategy. Joy is an inside job,” highlighting the transformative power of happiness in social movements. The upcoming performance at The Warfield promises to be a vibrant celebration, featuring local drag talent in what she describes as “the queerest holiday show.”

The community has praised Pattie not only for her activism but also for her artistic contributions to both the drag and environmental spheres. Beyond her performances, she is also a musician with projects in the pipeline. In her fundraising efforts, she shared an inspiring message on social media: “my name is pattie gonia and i’m backpacking 100 miles in drag to try to raise $1,000,000 for 8 outdoor nonprofits. here goes nothing.”

As Pattie Gonia continues her journey, she aims to inspire broader support for diversity in outdoor spaces, while also raising substantial funds for organizations committed to making a difference.