RuPaul to Take Over as New Young Life Director

In response to recent criticism of the organization, internationally-renowned drag queen and television host RuPaul Andre Charles has stepped in as the new Regional Director of Brazos Valley Young Life. This announcement came shortly after a campaign exposing faults within Young Life spread on social media.

The Instagram campaign “Do Better Young Life” highlights the pains YL has caused many members of the LGBTQ+ community involved in the organization. Young Life its leaders have been accused of excluding anyone a southern mother may describe as a “friend of Ellen” or “light in his loafers.” After discovering the Do Better Young Life page, America’s favorite drag queen halted production on Season 14 of RuPaul’s Drag Race and moved to the Brazos Valley to begin his reign as the new Young Life Director. “As a lifelong advocate for kids and young adults in the LGBTQ+ community, I knew I couldn’t just sit around and do nothing,” RuPaul said. “They need a serious change, and who better than me to help?”

The most commercially successful drag queen has already come up with some ideas on how to shake up the archaic stigma of Young Life, starting with the office. Upon his arrival, RuPaul immediately fired the current secretary and hired slightly less famous drag queens and former Drag Race contestants Trixie and Katya from The Trixie and Katya Show. The once dreary YL office located next to the tailor shop on Holleman Drive is now unrecognizable with its pink walls, mannequins, and a long runway that extends into the parking lot.

Response from Young Life leaders has been mixed. “I mean, I’m glad there is some sign of progress, but this seems kind of drastic,” said Sariah Elmore, Texas A&M senior and Young Life leader. “All we wanted was a diversity training and ideas on how to be more inclusive, and now I’m having to come in on a Sunday to sew a dress from scratch and walk in six-inch heels.”

 

— Haudi Arabia & Magnum OPAS