Darcelle XV Plaza is one of the first parks in the nation named in honor of a drag queen, celebrating the legacy of the legendary Darcelle XV and Portland’s deep commitment to inclusion and self-expression. As the newest addition to the city’s park collection, the plaza has been intentionally designed as a vibrant event space and welcoming public gathering place, built for performances, celebrations, and community moments that reflect the spirit of Portland.
A TRIBUTE TO DARCELLE XV
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PORTLAND'S PLAZA FOR ALL
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A TRIBUTE TO DARCELLE XV ✳︎ PORTLAND'S PLAZA FOR ALL ✳︎
Legacy of Darcelle XV and Walter Cole:
Darcelle XV — the stage persona of Walter Cole — was a pioneering performer, entrepreneur, and LGBTQ+ icon whose influence shaped generations of Portlanders. For more than five decades, Walter led one of the longest-running drag cabarets on the West Coast, creating a space where authenticity, humor, and heart took center stage. His legacy is one of resilience, generosity, and radical welcome, reminding us that joy, visibility, and community can transform a city.
