Copyright M Live Michigan
SAGINAW, MI – Dahlia Rivers was reminded of her childhood as she watched families trickle into the room for story time, recalling time spent surrounded by her own family in a farmhouse. Rivers, a local drag queen, said the opportunity to read children’s books to community members during a recent library event was nostalgic for her. “Every season, we would have that farmhouse full with over 40 people. Like, you’d have 10 to 15 kids, and it was just full and it was bustling, full of life and just energy,” Rivers said. “Coming into this room today, and just reading, it just brings back that sense of family and community.” The event, Halloween Drag Queen Story Hour, was held at Hoyt Library on Wednesday, Oct. 29. Children dressed in Halloween costumes and their families gathered to hear Rivers read four stories. After each book, Rivers engaged listeners with questions and conversation and gave drawing prompts related to the story. The books included “Looking for a Jumbie” written by Tracey Baptiste and illustrated by Amber Ren, “I Need My Monster” written by Amanda Noll and illustrated by Howard McWilliam, “The Little Ghost Who Was A Quilt” written by Riel Nason and illustrated by Byron Eggenschwiler and “The Snurtch” written by Sean Ferrell and illustrated by Charles Santoso. Rivers said events like these are important. “I think of when I was growing up, I did not have this visibility. I did not have a community that was able for me to look at and realize what I belong to,” Rivers said. “This here is important in giving back to the community, to give the representation, so our youth understand they have a better future than we had in our past.” Rivers got her start in drag when she was in high school, she said. There were two costumes available in her size: a car crash victim or a poodle skirt for a 1950s look. Of the two choices, Rivers’ mother encouraged the poodle skirt, a cable knit sweater, makeup and a wig from Rivers’ grandmother’s costume trunk. Rivers said she was nervous to attend school dressed like that, but the day went well and that’s when Dahlia Rivers was born. “You can try and change people’s mind, but it’s easier just to exist and put positivity out there, and that’s the biggest thing I do. We offer open arms to anyone,” Rivers said. Public Libraries of Saginaw Library Assistant Jeffrey Easlick said the staff is always looking for programming that strengthens understanding and community. “This event fits perfectly with the library’s mission to provide programming that fosters reading through education, enrichment, and entertainment for all members of our community,” Easlick said. “Miss Dahlia is a member of our community, and I believe she’s a role model because she fearlessly stands up for who she is with integrity and courage.” Rivers said another event to watch for is Drag Queen Bingo, held at the Historic Masonic Temple of Bay City. The PG-13 event is typically offered every other month.
