Drag queen Pattie Gonia says Patagonia lawsuit is attempt to ‘erase an activist’
MS NOW • • business
Key Points:
- Patagonia has filed a lawsuit against drag performer Pattie Gonia amid a wider political backlash against drag and gender nonconformity, with several Republican-led states passing restrictive laws and former President Trump vowing to ban drag shows at the Kennedy Center.
- The dispute centers on the use of the "Pattie Gonia" name; Patagonia claims there was a prior agreement on usage and advocacy work that would not conflict with its brand, while Pattie contends that any prior terms were limited and did not cover future activities.
- Patagonia stated the lawsuit is not meant to suppress advocacy rights but to protect its business and employees, emphasizing they do not wish to engage in a legal battle with someone who shares their values.
- Pattie Gonia, under the name Wyn Wiley, responded publicly and filed for legal representation, framing the lawsuit as a fight to preserve their name, advocacy, community, and livelihood, and has received significant social media support.