I would like to know why the gays and cross dressers are ociated with Judy Garland and Bette Midler?

I have heard the reference several times. They joked about it on the Nanny. Like gay men like to sing Judy Garland songs and they try to look like Bette Midler. I hope someone knows what I'm talking about. I mean these actresses weren't/aren't gay themselves? Are they?