"I am not a joiner despite some evidence to the contrary. I often look like a drag queen dressed me with a grudge and unlimited rhinestones. But my ideal Friday night involves hand-stitching beads and rewatching Gilmore Girls for the 47th time, and I've been sober for more than six years. Crowds like this one do not interest me, even though I was once labeled the "bad circuit party guy" -"
"Here is a crowd that will hand you sunscreen, fix your lash, and call you gorgeous in the same breath. They came to serve lewks and affirm life, and maybe scream a little for Sexy Satan. And scream we did, just as much for some amazing DIY couture as for trans rights. What should have been a goofy day in the sun ended up feeling a lot more sacred; here was queer chuch, a protest, and fashion week all rolled into one."
Queer communities face intensified threats from anti-trans bills, restrictive policies, and bans on Pride. Hunky Jesus functioned as a defiant, celebratory response that combined protest, community care, and DIY fashion. Attendees provided practical support—sunscreen and makeup fixes—while affirming one another and showcasing handcrafted looks and humor. The event married trans-rights advocacy with irreverent pageantry, creating a sacred, noncommercial Pride alternative. An attendee who typically avoids crowds and maintains sobriety found belonging among supportive strangers and also observed community leaders and brief political remarks during the festivities.
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