ICONIC BIRTHDAYS IN JULY!

Coco Montrese - July 2nd, 1974: Coco Montrese, the talented drag performer and television personality, has left an indelible mark on the world of drag and entertainment. Rising to fame as a contestant on the reality show "RuPaul's Drag Race" in its fifth season, Coco showcased her impeccable lip-syncing skills, fierce performances, and emotional vulnerability.

Throughout the show, Coco's memorable rivalry with fellow contestant Alyssa Edwards became a central storyline, highlighting the complexities and challenges of drag sisterhood. All that is looong in the past though and Coco influence in the community continues to grow worldwide. As an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, Coco uses her platform to support and uplift the community, inspiring others with her talent, authenticity, and unapologetic self-expression.

Frida Kahlo - July 6th, 1907 - July 13th, 1954: Frida Kahlo, the iconic Mexican artist of the 20th century, left an indelible mark on both the art world and the LGBT community. Renowned for her emotionally charged self-portraits and poignant depictions of pain and identity, Kahlo's work transcended artistic boundaries and resonated deeply with marginalized communities.

As a bisexual woman, Kahlo fearlessly expressed her own fluid identity and embraced her queerness in a time when it was largely stigmatized. Her unapologetic representation of diverse love and gender expressions in her art became a source of empowerment and inspiration for the LGBT community.

Beyond her personal life, Kahlo's art showcased themes of self-acceptance, resilience, and breaking societal norms, becoming a powerful emblem for queer individuals navigating their own journeys of self-discovery and acceptance. Her authenticity and defiance of societal norms paved the way for greater acceptance and understanding of LGBT rights, and her impact continues to resonate, making Frida Kahlo an enduring icon for the LGBT community.

Jean Cocteau - July 5th, 1889 - October 11th, 1963:

Jean Cocteau, the multifaceted French artist, writer, and filmmaker, left an indelible mark on the LGBT community through his groundbreaking work and personal life. Cocteau, a gay man, fearlessly explored themes of same-sex desire and nonconformity in his literature and art, challenging societal norms and advocating for sexual liberation.

Through his iconic novel "Les Enfants Terribles" and other literary works, Cocteau provided sensitive and nuanced portrayals of same-sex relationships, offering much-needed representation for queer individuals during an era when such topics were often taboo. Additionally, his openly gay relationships and friendships with prominent figures like Jean Marais and Raymond Radiguet further normalized queer identities and relationships.

Gareth Thomas - July 25th, :Gareth Thomas, the Welsh rugby legend, has made a profound impact on the LGBT community through his courage, authenticity, and advocacy. In 2009, Thomas bravely came out as gay, becoming the first openly gay professional rugby player. His disclosure shattered stereotypes and challenged the hyper-masculine norms prevalent in the sport.

Thomas' openness about his sexuality sparked conversations about LGBT representation in sports and inspired countless individuals struggling with their own identities to embrace their true selves. He fearlessly faced adversity and prejudice, becoming a symbol of resilience and strength for the LGBT community.