In a display of unwavering courage and resilience, a beloved drag venue and its star performer refused to be silenced after a harrowing bomb threat disrupted an all-ages drag brunch event. The incident occurred at the MotorKat restaurant and bar in Takoma Park, Maryland, during the holiday season, adding a shocking twist to what should have been a joyous occasion.
Tara Hoot, the drag performer headlining the brunch, found herself in the midst of her final act when police alerted the venue’s general manager to the threat. Without hesitation, Hoot, the embodiment of grace under pressure, urged audience members to evacuate the bar promptly to ensure their safety.
An Evacuation Leading to Hope
Despite the alarming circumstances, Tara Hoot displayed remarkable leadership. She led the children and attendees in a lively conga line to a secure location while law enforcement diligently scoured the area for potential danger. The entire strip, housing MotorKat and various businesses, came to a standstill as bomb-sniffing dogs meticulously inspected the vicinity, ultimately reopening two hours later.
Seth Cook, co-owner of MotorKat, expressed disappointment over the disruption, as the weekend typically marked a bustling prelude to year-end celebrations. However, Cook’s determination shone through as he remarked, “Takoma Park is a pretty proud and resilient community. I don’t expect people to lay down and be scared by this.”
Defying Threats with Grace and Positivity
Tara Hoot, undaunted by the unsettling experience, took to Instagram to address the incident, emphasizing her gratitude for venues and fans who continue to support her amidst unwarranted threats. She vowed to persist in hosting her beloved “MY STORY TIME BRUNCHES AND EVENTS,” assuring her devoted following that the show would go on. Her resilience and unwavering spirit encapsulated the indomitable nature of the LGBTQ+ community.
This incident, sadly, is not isolated. Threats against drag queens and venues have surged, with conservative voices accusing performers of “sexualizing children.” According to GLAAD, from late 2022 to early 2023, there were 161 documented incidents of anti-LGBTQ protests and threats targeting drag events. However, amidst these challenges, the LGBTQ+ community and its allies have consistently risen to the occasion, staging counterprotests, bolstering security, and refusing to succumb to fear, thus demonstrating their resilience and unity in the face of adversity.