How drag queens are creating safe spaces in Missouri

By: PBS News Student Reporting Labs and Maggie LeBeau

Outlets: PBS News Student Reporting Labs

Published: April 29, 2026

Words: 137

Last Updated: 1 month, 1 week ago

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This episode of On Our Minds Road Trip takes us to Columbia, Missouri, where drag performers are building community, creating joy, and challenging stereotypes.

Student producer Maggie LeBeau takes us inside the local drag scene, introducing us to performers like Alexxa Pro and Artemis Gray. They’re creating spaces of belonging, especially for young queer people who don’t always have one.

Maggie LeBeau produced the story in this episode.

Lead Producer Becky Wandel produced this episode …

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