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SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS

In addition to being a lawyer and drag performer, I have given talks across the country on the importance of authenticity, visibility, and representation; the history of anti-LGBTQ+ discrimination; and how to identify and unpack anti-LGBTQ+ bias.

 

My speaking engagements have included:

  • Giving a TEDx Talk at Duke University on the importance of not sacrificing identity for one's career

  • Speaking at law schools and law firms about historical and current LGBTQ+ discrimination in the law

  • Speaking at large law firms and large businesses about the importance of diversity and identity in the workplace

  • Speaking at universities about the history of LGBTQ+ representation in politics and theatre

INCLUDED TOPICS

I have adapted my talk for nearly every different speaking engagement I have done in order to "meet the moment," but the core of my talk is based on the following:

  • Sharing my personal story of growing up on a small farm in South Dakota to becoming a lawyer at one of the nation's top law firms while also being openly LGBTQ+ and a drag performer, which is based on my TEDx Talk.

  • My firsthand research on the history of LGBTQ+ representation in politics and theatre since the early 1900s.

  • My firsthand legal research on how anti-LGBTQ+ bias has permeated into the legal field while also influencing and enforcing bias outside the legal field.

  • How to recognize the historical pattern of anti-LGBTQ+ bias and check one's own bias.

I will work with you and/or your team to figure out what structure and topics fit your event best.

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Watch My TEDx Talk!

FAQ

Do you only give the talk in drag?

 

No. I have given my talks both in and out of drag - it just depends on what experience you are looking for!

How long is the talk?

This again varies based on the event. The talk typically lasts about an hour (perfect for a lunch time event!), but can vary depending on event scheduling, whether a Q&A is requested, etc. My talk can cover as little as fifteen minutes or as much as one-and-a-half to two hours.

What is your speaker engagement fee?

This also will depend on several factors, including travel/lodging, whether drag is requested, and your budget. I will work with you and/or your team to figure out what works best. My priority is accessibility, not profit.

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Interested in Booking?

I'm always happy to schedule a time to discuss whether my talk makes sense for your event. Please feel free to reach out via my contact information below. I look forward to working with you!

Cell Phone: 605-881-9123*

* Email preferred.

© 2023 by BRETT VINCENT RIES.

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