Justin Marsh, a queer fifth-generation Vermonter, has been a prominent figure in the LGBTQ community in Vermont. Growing up on a family farm in Cambridge, Marsh started wearing dresses at a young age and came out as gay in high school. In 2015, Marsh began performing as the drag queen Emoji Nightmare, traveling around the state and hosting drag shows, particularly in smaller towns. Marsh also cofounded the Vermont chapter of Drag Story Hour, reading children’s books about gender identity and LGBTQ issues to groups of kids and parents at libraries.

Despite the popularity of shows like “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” drag performances have faced backlash in some states, with attempts to ban them and restrict discussions on sexual orientation and gender identity in schools. In Vermont, drag story hours have been canceled in some towns due to protests and threats, such as a bomb threat at a White River Junction event.

Marsh, also known as Emoji, is actively involved in their community, working with organizations like the Cambridge Arts Council and the Cambridge Historical Society. Marsh’s journey as an LGBTQ advocate in Vermont was featured in a video by Seven Days’ Eva Sollberger, showcasing their work and impact in the state. Marsh’s dedication to their community and promotion of LGBTQ inclusivity have made them a respected figure in Vermont.

Source: https://www.sevendaysvt.com/arts-culture/stuck-in-vermont-cambridge-resident-justin-marsh-brings-drag-queens-to-rural-towns-as-emoji-nightmare-41342296