Performers Organize Voter Guide After Title IX Repeal
Local queer communities are mobilizing ahead of the upcoming midterm election following federal policy changes.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in LGBTQ+
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In September 2026, the U.S. Department of Education rescinded the 2024 Title IX rewrite, which had previously expanded protections based on gender identity and sexual orientation. In response, performers in San Luis Obispo are launching a voter guide to help residents navigate the November 3 midterm election.
Why it matters
Performers behind the initiative argue that queer communities currently face significant uncertainty regarding their fundamental rights and protections. They maintain that they do not have the privilege of political ignorance and are using their platform to drive civic engagement.
The Cal Poly Drag Club saw its membership expand from roughly 10 members in 2018 to exponential growth by 2023. These records ground the increased visibility and organization of the local queer community within the region.
The players
U.S. Department of Education
This federal agency is responsible for establishing policy and enforcing regulations regarding education, including Title IX protections.
Skinny Mocha
As the former president of the Cal Poly Drag Club, this individual has worked to build partnerships with various campus organizations.
Norma Lee Masc
A 2025 graduate of Cal Poly who has been active within the local drag performance community.
Cal Poly Drag Club
This student organization at California Polytechnic State University has seen significant growth in participation since 2018.
The details
The voter guide covers both Santa Barbara County and San Luis Obispo County to encourage turnout among concerned residents. Former club president Skinny Mocha and recent 2025 Cal Poly graduate Norma Lee Masc helped lead efforts to partner with various campus organizations to expand their reach.
Timeline
The Cal Poly Drag Club consisted of about 10 members in 2018.
The Cal Poly Drag Club grew exponentially in 2023.
Norma Lee Masc graduated from Cal Poly in 2025.
The U.S. Department of Education rescinded the Title IX rewrite in September 2026.
The midterm election is scheduled for November 3, 2026.
Culture Shift
The push for local voter guides marks a shift from campus-based performance toward organized political activism. This transition mirrors a broader trend where creative communities respond to the rescission of the 2024 Title IX rewrite by prioritizing local electoral participation.
Residents in Santa Barbara County and San Luis Obispo County can use the newly compiled voter guide to better understand candidates' positions on queer rights. This practical tool aims to streamline information access for those prioritizing civil rights in the upcoming election.
The takeaway
Engaging with local voter guides provides a direct way for residents to hold officials accountable regarding their stated policy positions. Researching candidate platforms before the midterm election is a practical step for those seeking to influence local representation.
What happens next
The midterm election is scheduled to take place on November 3, 2026.
Further reading
Find more context on the LGBTQ+ page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Mustang News.
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