A fundraising event called the “Great District 8 Chili Cook-Off” on behalf of orphans in Chile which was sponsored by Rainbow World Fund. The Rainbow World Fund is “an all-volunteer international humanitarian service agency based in the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and friends community.” This fundraising event was scheduled last Sunday afternoon at Ellard Hall, the parish hall of San Francisco’s Most Holy Redeemer Church located in the city’s 8th supervisorial district. Sister Roma was to be the emcee.
According to the press, the charitable event was scheduled to include the first public return of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence to the Most Holy Redeemer Church since the 7th of October 2007.
Sister Roma
According to an article published in the Bay Area Reporter the “emcees for the event will be current District 8 Supervisor Bevan Dufty and Sister Roma of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence”. The Bay Area Reporter is one of the longest running and largest local newspapers that serve the LGBT community.
Two members of the group embarrassed San Francisco Archbishop George Niederauer when they presented themselves for communion in drag. The archbishop gave the self-described “queer nuns” communion but within a week, he had publicly apologized for his actions and issued a statement strongly critical of the group. An important emcee at this event was Sister Roma.
Who is Sister Roma?
A world famous drag queen, social rights activist of the LGBTQI community and an art director of gay adult movie studio “Hot House Entertainment”. In addition to being a professional adult movie director, Sister Roma has served as an emcee at the Folsom Street Fair, an annual San Francisco event that celebrated BDSM and leather subculture.
This event concluded the city’s yearly Leather Pride Week. Sister Roma also co-hosts an online live-format talk show about the adult movie industry.
Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence
In 2006, the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence described themselves as “the leading-edge order of queer nuns”. Alongside their official slogan is “go forth and sin some more”.
Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence were booted out of Ellard Hall which was the same parish hall where Sunday’s cook-off was scheduled. This group had leased Most Holy Redeemer’s parish hall for bingo games to raise funds for HIV/AIDS programs. Until the chancery ordered them evicted,
In 2008, Sister Roma posed as Mary Magdalene
A now notorious poster that promoted that year’s Folsom Street Fair. The poster was a take-off of Leonardo da Vinci’s “Last Supper” with men and women in leather attire posed as the apostles.
Scattered around the table were various whips and BDSM restraint devices. This poster provoked outrage among Christians all over the country.
Sister Roma also acted as emcee at the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence’s annual “Hunky Jesus” contest. This contest took place on Easter Sunday which mocked the crucifixion of Jesus.
Men dressed up as what they thought Jesus would have looked like and prizes were awarded for what was considered to be the best costume. The 2010 winner was Junky Jesus, who wore a loincloth covered with syringes.
Sister Roma – All there is to know
Also known as Michael Williams, is an iconic figure in the world of drag and activism. Celebrated as the “Most Photographed Nun in the World”, Roma has dedicated over three decades of her life to fighting for the LGBTQ+ community. Raising funds for significant causes, and spreading joy through her vivacious personality.
Early Life and Education
Born on December 22, 1962, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Roma embraced her true identity at an early age. Raised in a conservative, Christian-reformed environment, she graduated from St. Thomas Aquinas with a BABS in the mid-1980’s.
Despite her conservative upbringing, Roma was always drawn to the vibrant and expressive world of drag.
Joining the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence
In 1987, Roma moved to the progressive city of San Francisco and joined the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence. An organization known for its work in promoting freedom of speech and expression, fighting against AIDS, and advocating for human rights.
Roma’s vibrant personality and commitment to the cause led her to become one of the most prominent figures in the group. She was the first Sister to be publicly elevated and unveiled, marking a significant milestone in her journey.
Activism and Fundraising
Over the years, Sister Roma has worked tirelessly on numerous causes, raising funds and awareness for various issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community. She created the “Stop The Violence” campaign, which led to the distribution of whistles as a protective measure against hate crimes.
Additionally, she has been actively involved in numerous fundraising projects, serving meals with Tenderloin Tessie’s. Painting kids’ faces for LYRIC, and moderating public forums on safer sex and serosorting for the SF AIDS Foundation.
In 2014, Roma also protested against Facebook’s real-name policy. Arguing for the right of individuals to self-identify on the world’s largest social networking platform. This activism led to the creation of the #MyNameIs movement, further cementing her status as a tireless advocate for the LGBTQ+ community.
Career in the Adult Entertainment Industry
Parallel to her activism, Sister Roma has had a successful career in the adult entertainment industry. She worked as the art director at Hot House Entertainment before it was acquired by NakedSword in 2014.
Currently, she serves as NakedSword’s art director and ambassador, lending her unique flair to the adult entertainment industry.
Roma’s involvement in the adult industry extends to hosting the Tim and Roma Show, an online talk show. Focusing on gay pornographic movies and the LGBTQ+ community. Her sharp wit and stunning beauty have made her a favorite host at numerous adult industry events and award ceremonies. From the Cybersocket Awards and GAYVNs in Los Angeles to Chicago’s Grabby Awards.
Recognition and Honors
Sister Roma’s tireless work and dedication to her causes have not gone unnoticed. In 2012, she was elected SF Pride Community Grand Marshal. And in 2016, she was recognized as SF’s Most Notable Drag Queen and Best of the Bay’s BEST ACTIVIST.
Internationally, Roma has hosted events across Europe and Asia, demonstrating her global reach and influence.
Social Media Presence
As a modern activist, Sister Roma has harnessed the power of social media to connect with fans and further her causes. She has a significant following across various platforms. Where she shares updates about her work and entertains her followers with her unique blend of humor and glamour.
Personal Life
Despite her busy schedule, Sister Roma finds time to enjoy personal hobbies. She is an avid cat lover and a collector of turkey feathers. And she also enjoys occasional visits to her beloved Puerto Vallarta.
Sister Roma’s Legacy
Sister Roma’s life and work reflect a deep commitment to promoting love, acceptance, and freedom. Her vibrant personality, tireless activism, and dedication to her causes continue to inspire many, both within and outside the LGBTQ+ community.
In the ever-fluctuating world of activism and drag, Sister Roma stands as a beacon of consistency, dedication, and love. Her work continues to inspire countless individuals around the globe, reminding us all of the power of individual action and the importance of standing up for what you believe in.
“Be yourself. Accept yourself. Love yourself. Live your life however you want, and don’t listen to what other people say or think, especially drag queens in a newspaper interview, for God’s sake!” – Sister Roma
Richard, our marketing guru, steers Adultsmart’s online presence. With over 10 years in the industry, he’s passionate about sexual health and lifestyle issues.