Because our stories deserve a centerfold.
Welcome to RAG MAG
RAG MAG NYC will be a bold, independent queer magazine dedicated to amplifying LGBTQ voices, culture, and creativity in New York City. We celebrate the unapologetic, the underground, the glamorous and the gritty — documenting queer life in all its forms.
September Cover Story: The Enduring Allure of Amanda Lepore
Story by Alexander Kacala | Photos by Wilsonmodels
The Month: September 2025
The 10 best cultural happenings in LGBTQ NYC.
Ryan Raftery on The Ballad of JonBenét Ramsey: True Crime, Camp & Taking Risks
Raftery’s latest work stands out as a provocative musical satire that holds a mirror to our cultural compulsions.
What is RAG MAG?
Rooted in the spirit of resistance and the legacy of zine culture of NYC, RAG MAG exists to uplift emerging talent, challenge the mainstream and build a space where queer people of the local community can see themselves, be heard and feel connected. Our local celebrities deserve a magazine cover, and we’re here to give it to them.
As the internet grows increasingly polluted with fake news and algorithm-driven clickbait, the need for intentional journalism — both in print and online — has never been greater. Gone are the days when it was easy to find out what to do or where to be in New York City. Defunct websites and outdated listings now clutter the digital landscape.
There’s a growing hunger for something real. Picking up a copy of RAG MAG channels that spirit — tactile, raw, alive — and offers this generation of queer New Yorkers a cultural experience in print. We’re dedicated to create a community with this brand, online but more importantly in real life. This first issue is just the beginning.
Through Our Lens
Discover the city’s vibrant spirit with our curated photo stories and galleries.
The September Issue
Our debut issue with New York icon Amanda Lepore as our inaugural cover star.
RAG MAG Stories & Features
Dive into our latest features and digital stories, each capturing a slice of NYC’s vibrant culture. From art and nightlife to local icons, there’s always something new to discover.
Stay Connected
Want the inside scoop on NYC culture, events, and local stories? Subscribe now or follow us for exclusive updates, event highlights, and the latest trends—from art openings to nightlife and everything in between.