CRYSTAL LABEIJA

b. Unknown

New York

Queen

Starting in the drag competition circuit, Crystal LaBeija made her way through the ranks by winning the title of Miss Manhattan. This win secured a spot in the documentary, The Queen (1968), which showcased fellow winners like Miss Brooklyn and Miss Philadelphia. LaBeija placed third-runner up, which led to her famous speech in the film - highlighting the rampant racism and preferential treatment to white Queens.

A few years later, LaBeija and a friend Lottie hosted a ball: Crystal & Lottie LaBeija presents the first annual House of LaBeija Ball at Up the Downstairs Case on West 115th Street & 5th Avenue in Harlem, NY.

Balls aren’t anything new, but the concept of the House, Mother and Father figureheads supporting members of their community, was unique. Today, House LaBeija is credited as the first House in ballroom culture.