Marti Cummings: The Politics of Drag

TRAN MAG: what were your motivations for entering mainstream politics, particularly at a time where trans people and associated art forms, including drag, are at the center of politically-led moral panic?

MARTI CUMMINGS: I’ve always been involved in activism and politics in some form or other but having the realization that having a microphone comes with great responsibility led me to want to use my voice to bring attention to what is happening in our country.

TRAN MAG: as a non-binary individual, how do you think the political system, particularly for candidates, could be more accepting and welcoming on trans and gender-non-conforming individuals?

MARTI CUMMINGS: we obviously know republicans are against us but we have to hold Democrats accountable as well. Too often we see centrist throw trans people under the bus rather than standing firm in support. Campaigns should be hiring, uplifting, and supporting trans people.

TRAN MAG: what/who are you biggest fashion, hair, makeup inspirations, either from history, pop culture, or your own personal life? - I love classic drag and look at people like varla Jean merman and coco Peru as huge inspirations.

MARTI CUMMINGS: you’ve been performing for quite some time in NYC, (we’d say decades off-record because we dont want to reveal a lady’s age) but what would you say you’re most memorable or favorite moment in your drag career in NYC thus far? - I’ve had so many amazing opportunities over the years but being honored as grand marshal of Pride in 2025 was the highlight for me.

TRAN MAG: You’ve been on numerous TV shows in drag including BRAVO and America’s worst cooks and most notably in the documentary selected for the largest lgbtqia festival in the U.S “Queen of New York” can you tell us about that experience and are their any future documentaries or film/tv projects coming into the works this year we can look forward too?

MART CUMMINGS: I love being on tv and having drag in the mainstream. The documentary highlighted my campaign for city council and I hope it inspired other trans, non binary, and gender queer people to run for office.

TRAN MAG: There’s plenty of queens in the past that I’m sure helped inspire your own career and drag journey? Are there any throwbacks, sisters or queens who inspired or helped shaped your drag from the early start?

MARTI CUMMINGS: peppermint is my sister, my friend, and a true inspiration from the start and to this day.

TRAN MAG: You’ve performed in almost every bar and venue in the citywhat is your favorite place or venue to perform?

MARTI CUMMINGS: Love them all wink