ENROLLED ORIGINAL
1
A CEREMONIAL RESOLUTION
25-9
IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
February 7, 2023
To recognize and honor beloved entertainer Dustin Michael Schaad AKA “ Ba’Naka” on the occasion of
their tragic and untimely death on January 11
th
, 2023.
WHEREAS, Schaad was born in Bradenton, FL in the late 1980s, and moved to the D.C. area
directly after graduating high school;
WHEREAS, Schaad initially worked at Universal Gear, a menswear retailer formerly located in
the 1600 block of 17
th
Street, NW;
WHEREAS, after moving to the D.C. area, Schaad began performing as Ba’Naka at drag shows
around the city, eventually becoming one of the most recognizable people in the District’s drag
community;
WHEREAS, Ba’Naka was voted “Best Drag Queen” by the Washington Blade in 2011;
WHEREAS, through their vibrant personality and outgoing nature, Ba’Naka raised awareness
around issues impacting the LGBTQ+ community;
WHEREAS, Ba’Naka became a beloved regular at gay bars and clubs around the District, lifting
the spirit of the LGBTQ+ community;
WHEREAS, Ba’Naka was a strong advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and participated in
several protests and demonstrations, including the Silent March focused on anti- LGBTQ violence;
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, T hat this resolution
may be cited as the “Dustin Michael Schaad Memorial Recognition Resolution of 2023”.
Sec. 2. The Council of the District of Columbia honors Dustin Michael Schaad’s memory,
recognizes and celebrates thei r legacy of love, unity, and compassion for all those who knew him, and
expresses sincere condolences to Dustin’s family and loved ones.
Sec. 3. This resolution shall take effect immediately .