With Tennessee’s controversial law imposing severe restrictions on cabaret shows temporarily on hold, organizers of the Midsouth Pride festival in Memphis are breathing a cautious sigh of relief. They have managed to book over 50 drag entertainers for next month’s event, but they are well aware of the possibility that the law could come into effect before the June celebrations, effectively banning drag from public property or in the presence of minors.
Vanessa Rodley, a seasoned festival organizer, is determined to counteract the restrictions. “We can’t put on an event that segregates a huge portion of our community,” she emphasized. As a result, the organizers have been making adjustments to performances, preparing for any eventuality that may arise.
The challenges faced by Pride organizers in conservative states, where LGBTQ+ rights have become a target of broader attacks, have intensified. To ensure their annual celebrations of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer identity continue, they find themselves editing acts and canceling drag shows. These measures are an attempt to navigate the broad legislative language that equates drag performances with “adult-oriented performances that are harmful to minors,” as seen in Tennessee’s law. In other cases, organizers have had to confront critics opposing drag shows during local city council meetings while fighting for essential permits.
The U.S. Association of Prides’ co-president, Ron deHarte, highlights the extensive research being undertaken by most Pride organizations to understand how legislation across the country may impact their events. Conversely, in progressive states like California, this year’s Pride events offer an opportunity to make a larger statement and raise awareness about the LGBTQ+ community.
The wave of bills aiming to limit or ban drag performances has affected more than a dozen states. Florida, where Governor Ron DeSantis is expected to sign a similar bill, is the only other state set to enact such a law. The passage of these bills has prompted a significant response from supporters of the LGBTQ+ community, who are determined to demonstrate solidarity and ensure safety within their localities.
Historically, Pride events emerged as a way to commemorate the Stonewall rebellion of 1969, a significant milestone in the LGBTQ+ rights movement. This year’s Pride rally and parade in New York City will carry the national theme “Strength in Solidarity,” with a particular focus on the transgender community and drag queens. These groups have been targeted by recent legislation in conservative states. Sue Doster, co-chairperson of NYC Pride, emphasizes the importance of unity in the face of such attacks, as those affected may be less likely to fight back individually.
While backlash against transgender individuals, drag performances, and Pride events is not new, recent incidents highlight the urgency of the situation. For instance, last year, members of a white supremacist group were arrested near an Idaho Pride event. This year, the Pride Alliance of the Treasure Coast in Florida has reacted to potential legislation by canceling a planned parade and limiting other events to individuals aged 21 and older. Similarly, Hutchinson Salt City Pride in Kansas has adjusted its program and secured a new venue after facing opposition from a local business owner who deemed the event, including a drag queen story hour, as depraved.
