February 03, 2025 | Amy Luettgen

Rai Hudson: forging a more inclusive future

"We are survivors. I know, without a shadow of a doubt, that we will get through this."

Rai Hudson

"You need to survive this... and you can survive this."

Rai Hudson is an all-around entertainer who knew from a very young age that they would pursue a career in the creative arts. Their creativity extends from music, acting, dancing, songwriting, performing, and being an entrepreneur of the creative arts. They are also a well-known drag entertainer in the Milwaukee area. Their successes have been manifold and among other venues, audiences will be able to see them in the Skylight Theater’s production of Sister Act this spring.

Deep Milwaukee roots

Pursuing this line of work was always a given for Rai given his family lineage in the arts.

His grandfather, Jon Pierre Gee, was well-known as a musician who worked and performed with such luminaries as Tina Turner, Ike Turner, James Brown, and many others. Gee’s guidance, along with that of his partner, Kat Webb, was instrumental in helping Hudson pursue his dreams of a creative career. His mother, Khadija Johnson, was an opera singer who performed in many classical and contemporary productions in the Great Lakes area, Johnson trained Hudson vocally.

Ancestral lore also mentions such superstars as Percy and Curtis Mayfield, Chaka Khan, Flora Mayfield, and Bessie Smith as branches of the family tree.

Hudson shines as both a standout performer and a passionate advocate within the Milwaukee drag and music scene. Their creativity and energy have made them a beloved figure, but it’s their commitment to social change and community activism that truly sets them apart.

Beyond the stage, Hudson is deeply involved with a number of local organizations that support marginalized groups, including the Milwaukee LGBT Community Center, Diverse & Resilient, and Pathfinders. They are unwavering in their belief that support for the queer community is essential, not just for creating safe spaces but for fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment.

Whether it's volunteering their time, collaborating on initiatives, or simply offering a helping hand, Hudson is always there to lend support when it’s needed most. Their advocacy goes hand-in-hand with their artistry, as they understand that lifting up others is a powerful way to make real, lasting change in the community.

Rai’s journey has taken them to various places over the years, but their roots are firmly planted in Milwaukee.

Born and raised in the city, they often joke that they’ve been on tour their entire life, as their family moved around frequently. Despite the traveling, they always found their way back to Milwaukee, and over time, it became clear that this city wasn’t just where they lived—it was where they truly belonged.

For Hudson, Milwaukee is much more than just a place on the map; it’s the heartbeat of their life and their work. They proudly say that it’s where their heart and family are, with their closest loved ones and community members calling this city home.

Milwaukee serves as both a home base and a launching pad for Hudson’s artistic career, offering the foundation for them to grow and thrive. It’s also the place where they first began their journey as an activist, using the city as a springboard to create meaningful change and support the causes they care about most. Rai is deeply connected to Milwaukee, and the city continues to fuel their passion for both art and advocacy.

Becoming Rai

Rai remembers being about 11 years old when they came out of the closet. They also recall showing signs at a younger age, like trying on their mom’s clothes and being dazzled by her ‘radiant closet’. The vibrant colors and accessories were something they loved to explore.

At that time, they also began to realize they were attracted to guys, particularly Aaron Carter, a major crush for Rai. One vivid memory was putting Carter’s picture on the computer, and their mom repeatedly taking it down and asking why Rai liked him. Eventually, Rai told her they liked him as more than just a role model.

While mom’s initial reaction was not supportive at their fifth-grade graduation, she later surprised Rai with a signed Aaron Carter album, saying, “I love you regardless. I am so proud of you, my beautifully handsome son.” That moment solidified a beautiful relationship between mother and child.

As for the rest of the family, the reaction to Rai’s identity was complex and, at times, challenging. Rai’s grandparents, in particular, struggled to fully understand and accept their identity for a long time. There were moments of confusion and concern, especially early on, when they questioned whether Rai wanted to be a girl or was simply experimenting with their gender expression.

Rai took the time to reassure them, explaining that their choices in how they dress and present themselves weren’t about trying to be someone else but about embracing what felt authentic and right for them.

Rai Hudson

While there were certainly moments of judgment, misunderstanding, and even discomfort from various family members over the years, Rai remained patient and committed to educating those around them. Through open conversations, empathy, and time, the family dynamics shifted.

Today, Rai shares a deep, loving relationship with their family, one built on mutual respect, understanding, and acceptance. While it wasn’t always an easy road, the journey has led to a place where their sexual and gender identity is not only understood but embraced by their loved ones. In the end, Rai’s relationship with their family has become stronger than ever, proving that with love, patience, and communication, even the most challenging conversations can lead to a deeper connection.

Looking back, Rai sees their journey as one of self-discovery and growth. Childhood bullying was a painful but crucial part of that process, teaching them the strength to stand firm in their identity and advocate for themselves. Rather than letting adversity define them, Rai turned it into empowerment. A key transformation has been the healing of their relationships with family. Though there were moments of misunderstanding, love and open communication have led to mutual acceptance.

These restored connections show how patience and understanding can overcome division. Rai is grateful for the acceptance they've found within their family and community, and they hope to inspire others to embrace their true selves, no matter the obstacles. Through living authentically, Rai aims to create a space where others can feel safe, loved, and empowered to be who they truly are.

Rai Hudson

Forever forward

Rai spoke movingly about the love and support of his Uncle Johnny. Johnny Teague, the best friend of his Mother’s, who was a true mentor as they came to terms with their sexuality. Uncle Johnny provided practical advice and how to present and protect themselves as a black and gay person in the world. Rai calls Johnny their guardian angel, their backbone, and their ‘best friend to the end.’. Rai has many other very important people in his life. Rai’s Auntie Janice Colby, helped them navigate how to live as a trans person in the world ,as well as how to protect themselves. Janice was the person who introduced them to the drag world.

Another obstacle Rai faced was the response to his identity as a black, feminine queer performer. Some venues would not book them and audiences were sometimes hostile. Rai’s determination to succeed was fired by these setbacks. And they have, with some encouragement and assistance from their sibling, Kham, Rai established a good friendship with This Is Its owner, George Schneider, and started to perform their ‘Caba-Rai’ at the legendary gay bar. Another big break was performing at Milwaukee PrideFest.

Rai was surprised to be booked on the PrideFest main stage for their first solo show. They'd expected to be booked on a side stage, not the main stage. Despite some pre-show jitters, Rai’s performance was a major success and continued to jump-start their career. Their potential was noticed early on in their career.

Rai states they are very thankful for everyone who has encouraged him and supported his career over the years. He is proud of being the founder of The Vaudeville Vixens, a drag burlesque troupe. They have been performing for the past 2 1⁄2 years. They call the Vixens a talented group of best friends who have fun together on and off stage. Another milestone was starting their record label R17 Records. R17 offers a range of services including recording studio bookings, artist management, and marketing support. Jon Pierre Gee, Rai’s grandfather, is the person they credit with tutoring them on the business as well as the creative side of the music business. Rai would assist with projects and vocal train at his Grandfather and Kat Webb’s company Kandi Entertainment. Rai’s work with Christopher Hanson of MidCoast Music/ Warner Chappell creating music for TV and film, and their professional start in theater in Skylight Music Theatre’s XANADU is also one of their many fulfilling vocations.

Elevating our history

While Rai expresses deep concerns about the current political climate, particularly the growing challenges faced by the LGBTQ community, they also reflect on the resilience and strength of the Queer community throughout history. Rai acknowledges that, while these struggles are significant, the LGBTQ community has overcome countless obstacles in the past—and they are confident that we will rise above today’s challenges as well.

"I know, without a shadow of a doubt," Rai declares, 'that the queer community will get through this. We are survivors."

For Rai, the queer community isn’t just about surviving; it’s about thriving, finding strength in adversity, and continuing to grow in the face of oppression. Rai also speaks from a deeply personal perspective, recognizing that being born Black already brought its own set of struggles. However, rather than viewing these hardships as barriers, they proudly embrace their identities.

Rai is unapologetically comfortable in their skin, understanding that their Blackness and queerness are integral parts of who they are. 'I am proud to be Black and gay,' they affirm, emphasizing that their identity is something they celebrate every day.

In addition to embracing their own identity, Rai hopes the world comes to understand the pivotal role that Black and other marginalized communities have played in shaping the United States.

"We are the founders of this country," said Rai. "We have built this nation on our backs and contributed in countless ways."

Rai wishes for greater recognition of this history and for society to honor the immense contributions of these communities. Through their words and actions, Rai works to celebrate not only their own identity but the identities of others, especially those in the Black gay community. They believe that by highlighting and celebrating these intersections, we can begin to forge a world where all identities are honored and uplifted, paving the way for a more inclusive future.

Rai is fulfilled by being recognized as a source of representation for their community. They are always their authentic self and hope that when others see them they are inspired by their positive self-confidence.

Rai mentions that everyone should never be ashamed to live as their authentic selves, its the key to everyone’s success. Their journey has not always been easy but they see themselves as part of a larger movement of queer artists of color. They have a message that encourages everyone to live in their authenticity. They encourage everyone to find their community, always offer love, move with love, be of service and inspiration. They are passionately committed to uplifting and empowering their community.

Rai looks forward to collaborating and hearing from more diverse voices in Milwaukee and beyond.

Follow Rai on Facebook.

Rai Hudson and the Skylight cast of XANADU