Check Out Elise Chenoweth’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Elise Chenoweth.

Hi Elise, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, let’s briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
As a mother, I wanted to see a Drag Story Hour program, but there were only a few close by. In 2018, I had been chatting with local performer Amazing Grace (who has since moved back to Missouri) about it, and she was totally on board, but it wasn’t until 2019 that Medicine Mama’s Pharmacy opened its doors to our first event. I didn’t expect it to be more than just a one-time thing until I saw its impact on the LGBTQ+ community and the ally families. Since June 2019, we’ve navigated protestors, COVID closures, online and in-person threats and harassment, and more. It is a fight worth fighting to see a generation growing up with less fear and hate than the ones before them.

You wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been smooth?
I answered this in the last question! It has been challenging. A lot of folks want us to be elsewhere. Especially now with all this anti-drag legislation is happening. Fortunately, many more people support the program, and when things feel tough, or the hate messages are meaner than usual, I must remember that.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might need to become more familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I am the founder and director of Drag Story Hour Triangle. I am also a board member of the National Drag Story Hour nonprofit. DSH captures the imagination and play of the gender fluidity of childhood and gives kids glamorous, positive, and unabashedly queer role models. In spaces like this, kids can see people who defy rigid gender restrictions and imagine a world where everyone can be their authentic selves! My goal with this program is to provide children with mirrors and windows, so they can see themselves and their community in the stories and the storytellers in hopes that they can grow into a generation that embraces themselves and their diversity.

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc.?
I spend a lot of time with children’s literature, and my current favorite book is We Move Together by Kelly Fritsch, Anne McGuire, and Eduardo Trejos. It follows a group of mixed-ability kids as they try to negotiate different barriers, including ones they are passionate about but disagree on.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.dragstoryhour.org
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dragstoryhourtriangle/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DQSHtriangle

Image Credits
Stephanie Rose Photography