CITY LIFE
Seattle Drag Performer Aleksa Manila Takes Pride in Community'I’ve always believed drag is a platform.

Just by nature of dressing up out of the norm, you’re already making a statement. You’re already a rebel'
By Beau Iverson | PRINT EDITION | JUNE 2019

Image Credit: Hayley Young
QUEEN OF HEARTS: Community and LGBTQ advocate Aleksa Manila photographed in the Chinatown-International District at the Publix Hotel

"Aleksa deploys humor and wit while challenging our biases

and raising awareness around the important issue of addiction,

which affects the LGBTQ community at a disproportionate rate."

- Mayor Jenny Durkan, 2018 Mayor's Pride Awards

"Aleksa taught me that you don't need a mask and a cape to be a super hero,
although you might need some lipstick and mascara."

- Dr. Chong-suk Han, Author

Geisha of a Different Kind - Race and Sexuality in Gaysian America