LA-based drag queen Lauren Banall has gained significant attention online after performing as Erika Kirk, the widow of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk. Banall is leveraging this newfound popularity to raise funds for the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), a prominent civil rights organization in the United States.
In two TikTok videos released over the weekend, Banall showcases a striking portrayal of Erika Kirk, wearing a red blazer, black trousers, and a long blonde wig. The first video features Banall lip-syncing to an audio clip of Erika reciting a Bible verse during her husband’s memorial service, where he was shot last September while speaking at Utah Valley University. The verse, from Luke 23:34, emphasizes forgiveness: “for they know not what they do.” Following this, Banall blends the performance with a rendition of Cascada’s 2009 hit, “Evacuate The Dancefloor.”
The second video highlights Erika Kirk’s comments from a December interview with CBS News journalist Bari Weiss, where she urged commentator Candace Owens to cease spreading conspiracy theories about her husband’s death. These clips have collectively garnered over six million views, showcasing Banall’s growing influence on social media.
Banall also introduced herself as “Erika Qwerk” in a third video, where she encouraged viewers to contribute to her GoFundMe campaign aimed at supporting the ACLU. The organization advocates for the rights of marginalized communities, including the transgender and wider LGBTQ+ populations, and works to protect individuals against censorship and anti-LGBTQ+ legislation.
“Thank you so much for all of this incredible response to my Erika Kirk number. It’s truly overwhelming,” Banall expressed in her videos. She called for donations to her GoFundMe page, emphasizing the need to “fight [Donald Trump’s] administration in the courts and win.” Her campaign aims to support the ACLU’s efforts in challenging legislation perceived as harmful to the LGBTQ+ community.
Banall’s GoFundMe page states, “We’ve re-ignited our Fund Rager page benefitting the ACLU so we can block the b******* this next administration is doing in the courts. No kings, no grifters, no ICE!”
Erika Kirk has made several public appearances since her husband’s death, most recently on stage at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest in December, where she interviewed rapper-turned-Trump advocate Nicki Minaj.
The performances by Lauren Banall not only serve as a commentary on current sociopolitical issues but also illustrate the power of social media in mobilizing support for civil rights initiatives. As her viral content continues to resonate, Banall is making an impact that goes beyond entertainment, encouraging activism and community support for the ACLU.
