Dorian Corey, Pepper LaBeija, Venus Xtravaganza, Willi Ninja, Octavia St. Laurent, and Angie Xtravaganza. Core Themes & Subjects
The film explores the lives of Black and Latinx LGBTQ+ individuals who were largely excluded from mainstream society due to racism, homophobia, and poverty. Paris Is Burning (1990)
Participants belong to "Houses" (e.g., House of LaBeija, House of Xtravaganza) led by "Mothers" or "Fathers" who provide emotional and sometimes financial support to youth often rejected by their biological families. Octavia St. Laurent
A highly stylized form of dance that originated in the balls as a way to "throw shade" or settle rivalries through performance. House of LaBeija
