The Google Doodle featured on June 9th pays tribute to the remarkable life and legacy of Willi Ninja, an iconic dancer and choreographer known as the “Godfather of Voguing.” On what would have been his 62nd birthday, the animated doodle captures the essence of this influential performer, and by clicking on it, viewers are directed to a YouTube video celebrating his extraordinary contributions to dance and the LGBTQ+ community. Illustrated by Rob Gilliam and edited by Xander Opiyo, the video is accompanied by original music composed by Vivacious.
Willi Ninja’s impact on the world of dance and LGBTQ+ representation cannot be overstated. Born in 1961, he grew up in Flushing, Queens, where he was fortunate to have a loving and supportive mother who encouraged his passion for dance. Even though they couldn’t afford formal lessons, Willi’s mother took him to ballet performances at the Apollo Theater, fueling his inspiration and drive to pursue his dreams.
Undeterred by financial constraints, Willi Ninja taught himself the art of voguing, a dance style that combines fashion poses with intricate movements influenced by mime and martial arts. Voguing originated in the vibrant Harlem ballroom scene, which provided a safe haven for LGBTQ+ Black and Latino individuals to express themselves and foster a sense of community.
Drawing inspiration from Egyptian hieroglyphs and martial arts, Willi Ninja revolutionized voguing by introducing new dance techniques that pushed the boundaries of the art form. His extraordinary talent propelled him to stardom in the 1990s, leading to appearances in films, music videos, and prestigious runway shows around the world. The mesmerizing elegance and energy of his performances inspired countless others, including notable figures such as Madonna and Jean-Paul Gaultier.
Willi’s impact extended beyond the realm of dance. He used his platform to become a powerful advocate for his community, particularly in raising awareness about HIV/AIDS prevention. At drag balls, Willi was one of the first to address the issue and played a pivotal role in reducing the stigma associated with the disease. His dedication to promoting understanding and acceptance made a profound difference in the lives of many.
Furthermore, Willi Ninja established the Iconic House of Ninja, a community that remains vibrant and influential to this day. The House of Ninja provided a nurturing space for aspiring dancers, fostering talent and creating a supportive environment for self-expression. Willi’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of performers ensured that his legacy would live on and continue to inspire future dancers.
The significance of June 9th goes beyond Willi Ninja’s birthdate. On this day in 1990, the groundbreaking documentary “Paris is Burning” was released in the United States at the NewFest New York LGBT Film Festival. The film prominently featured Willi Ninja and the Iconic House of Ninja, shedding light on the voguing subculture and providing a profound exploration of race, class, gender, and sexuality. “Paris is Burning” not only showcased the immense talent of Willi and his contemporaries but also served as a catalyst for greater visibility and acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community.
Through his artistic brilliance, fearless advocacy, and dedication to nurturing the next generation, Willi Ninja left an indelible mark on the world. His pioneering contributions to dance and his unwavering support for the LGBTQ+ community continue to resonate and inspire people worldwide. The Google Doodle serves as a reminder of his enduring legacy and invites viewers to celebrate his life by exploring the vibrant world of voguing and the remarkable achievements of Willi Ninja.
