How Ecuador's Queer Folk Explore Identity Through Drag

Gledys Anael, a founding member of the Hektra brotherhood poses for a portrait during her transformation to"Mama Oracle" in Quito, Ecuador. Photo by Johis Alarcón for Remezcla

A person with long black hair, a full beard and a sparkling red sari that exposes naked shoulders steps forward and places a bouquet of white roses below the flag. Her bold red lips open wide and long to Sarah Brightman’s version of Scarborough Fair, their arms move dramatically to a Celtic harp, then one drag performer after another catwalks into the room. Each one bends down to their sparkling stiletto heels, lifts their dress and places a white rose at the feet of the black flag.

Nina and her partner Jazmín de la Luz pose for a portrait in Quito, Ecuador. Photo by Johis Alarcón for RemezclaIn the past three years, Macías has used rituals and ceremonies to help young queer Ecuadorians know their personal transformation is sacred and honorable. Belonging to a community is vital, particularly when it comes to facing a society that shames and represses gender non-conformity.

Gledys Macías, a founding member of the Hektra community, preparing to transform into Destiny. Photo by Johis Alarcón for RemezclaThere is La Oraculo, Macías’ spiritual side, their sensual femme Destiny, and then somewhere in between there is Gledys, astutely navigating the balance of living as they desire, and as demanded by society.

While La Oraculo seems to have a clearer place in Macías’ life, they admit that Destiny continues to confuse them. “I don’t really know what gender I identify as anymore,” says Macías, “I just know I am not a man.” When I ask if they thought of transitioning, they release a deep sigh. This violence seeps into the public realm, the study found. Over 92% of transgender people reported having suffered some kind of discrimination, exclusion, or harassment in public spaces. It’s what makes the need to ‘pass’ as a cisgender man or woman not only more desirable but also a matter of survival.

While Rentería herself is bubbly and can oftentimes hide her awkwardness behind bursts of theatrical impersonations, Dareyeska comes across as smooth and calmly confident, owning the room wherever he goes. Most often he wears a dark suit, his chest is wide and open–unafraid–while his black facial hair contrasts with bright and colorful eyeshadow.

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