Footage of a drag queen celebrating Pride month in a spin class has gone viral.
The video of Chicago-based queen Amber Valentine was posted to the TikTok account of Therapy Ryde. Overlaid text reads: “What happens when your brother agrees to come to your spin class in drag.”
Amber is seen strutting through the class doors in bedazzled tights and a sparkly black gown, which she strips off to reveal a neon multi-coloured leotard that matches her hair. Further text adds: “She slays.”
The clip goes on to show other members of the class beaming while fanning themselves with Pride-themed fans.
Therapy Ryde brands itself as a “cycling class infused with mental health therapy taught by clinical professional counsellor Kristin Burtaine”.
@therapyryde Who knew a cycle class could turn into a fierce drag show?! Thank you to my brother (sister) @theambervalentine for making this vision come to love so we could practice self care in such a joyful way! #pride #dragqueen #cycle #chicago #therapy #selfcare #therapyryde ♬ Born This Way – Lady Gaga
Comments under the video praise the cycle class for introducing Amber to a wider audience – the drag queen currently has fewer than 3,000 followers on TikTok. One person wrote: “This is the best thing I’ve ever seen on [TikTok]. Why does Amber Valentine only have like 500 followers?”
Others said: “You should get some kind of trophy for doing spin in drag, that’s actually insane,” and, “How do we keep our makeup on without completely sweating it off?”
Someone else proclaimed: “Slay doesn’t cover it. I need a much stronger word.”
The cycle class’ support comes at a time when companies have begun releasing a range of Pride month merchandise, despite Donald Trump’s attacks on corporate diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.
However, some organisations, including stock car racing association NASCAR, have been criticised for showing only muted support.
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