The recent passing of a bill in Tennessee has caused alarm and anxiety among the LGBTQ community and their supporters. The legislation prohibits drag shows in public spaces, potentially forcing these events into underground spaces. This could have a domino effect on Pride festivals, which often showcase outdoor drag performances. The wording of the bill has come under fire for its potential implications for queer Tennesseans beyond drag performers. The definition of drag performers as “male or female impersonators” has raised concerns that it could be used to target and harm LGBTQ individuals more broadly.
Tennessee Drag Show Ban: A Clear Attempt to Legalize Bigotry – by Maxwell Alexander, EIC, Guy Style Magazine
This legislation is particularly concerning as it represents a deliberate attempt to legalize discrimination and bigotry. The ban is a blatant attack on the rights of LGBTQ individuals, not just in Tennessee, but across the United States and globally. One drag performer has noted that the only time dressing in drag is acceptable is for straight men, while queer, gay, and trans people doing the same is deemed unacceptable.
Moreover, the language of the bill has sparked concerns about the harm it could inflict on the wider LGBTQ community in Tennessee. It may be used to further criminalize being transgender or queer, impacting businesses that depend on drag performances, such as bars with drag brunches or party buses featuring drag queens.
Critics contend that the legislation is unconstitutional, as it unjustly targets drag shows and lacks a legitimate legal definition of “harmful to minors.” This marks the third year in a row that the state has stripped the rights of transgender Tennesseans, prompting many members of the community to question whether they should remain in the state or leave.
It’s important to remember that democracy depends on safeguarding the rights of all individuals, irrespective of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Legalizing bigotry is a grave danger to democracy. As citizens, it’s our responsibility to speak out against discrimination and fight for the rights of all individuals.
Although LGBTQ rights activism has made considerable progress, there is still much work to be done. Everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, must support and participate in the fight for equal rights. This can be achieved through various methods, such as attending rallies and marches, writing letters to elected officials, or merely having discussions with friends and family about the importance of LGBTQ rights. Every action, no matter how small, can make a difference in the lives of queer and trans people. Let’s stand together in solidarity and strive towards a future where everyone can be their true selves without fear of discrimination or violence.
