Pattie Gonia Wins International Climate Advocacy Award for Queer Environmental Leadership
(SAN DIEGO, CA) – Drag queen and environmental activist Pattie Gonia was awarded the Global Green Impact Award on Tuesday for her pioneering work in merging LGBTQ+ advocacy with climate action. According to a press release from the World Climate Foundation, the honor recognizes Gonia’s viral “Drag the Border” fundraiser, which raised over $300,000 last year to support migrant communities impacted by extreme weather events along the U.S.-Mexico border. The event, held on August 28, 2024, featured performances by over 50 drag artists. Pattie Gonia, whose real name is Wyn Wiley, stated the award underscores a critical intersection: “Environmental justice is queer justice.” The ceremony took place in San Diego, California, and organizers reported a global livestream audience of 1.2 million viewers.