In a recent development, Florida regulators have announced a settlement with a Miami hotel, bringing an end to a legal dispute stemming from a holiday drag show hosted by the hotel last year. The case revolved around the Hyatt Regency Miami and a Christmas-themed drag show that had raised concerns about the presence of minors.
The performance, titled “A Drag Queen Christmas,” took place in December of the previous year as part of a nationwide holiday-themed tour, featuring stars from the Emmy-winning show “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” While the show allowed minors to attend if accompanied by an adult, it came under scrutiny from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
In a 17-page complaint filed in March, Florida regulators argued that the drag show violated state statutes on lewdness and exposed children to “simulated sexual activity, and lewd, vulgar, and indecent displays.”
As part of the settlement, the Hyatt Regency Miami has agreed to pay a $5,000 fine and has committed not to permit anyone under the age of 18 to attend performances at the hotel that involve activities described in Florida’s statutes on lewdness.
Melanie S. Griffin, a spokesperson for the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, emphasized the importance of accountability, stating, “Under the leadership of Governor DeSantis, when licensees break the law, they are held accountable.” Griffin further noted the department’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of Floridians, particularly minors.
This settlement comes amidst a broader backdrop of efforts by state lawmakers across the U.S. to restrict drag performances, which are an integral part of the LGBTQ+ community’s cultural expression. While some states, including Florida, have passed laws aimed at regulating drag shows, many of these measures have faced legal challenges. The Supreme Court’s recent rejection of Florida’s request to enforce its drag law and a district judge’s ruling that the law was designed to suppress drag queen performers’ speech underscore the ongoing legal battles surrounding this issue.
Florida’s settlement with the Hyatt Regency Miami echoes similar resolutions the state has reached with other establishments in recent months, further highlighting the complexities and debates surrounding the intersection of drag culture, LGBTQ+ rights, and state regulations.