The Tennessee Legislature has passed a bill that restricts where certain drag shows can take place, drawing criticism from LGBTQ advocates who view it as discriminatory. The bill, which changes the definition of “adult cabaret” to include “male or female impersonators,” bans adult cabaret performances on public property or at private establishments where children may be present. Violators would be charged with a misdemeanor or felony if it’s a repeat offense.
Republican Governor Bill Lee has vowed to sign the bill, which he says would address “sexually suggestive drag shows” that are inappropriate for children. Tennessee is among the states passing the most anti-LGBTQ legislation in recent years, with this move making it the first state to act quickly in ensuring that drag shows cannot take place in public or in front of children.
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LGBTQ advocates argue that the bill unfairly targets drag shows, a longstanding and celebratory form of entertainment, and misconstrues age-appropriate performances. The Human Rights Campaign Legal Director Sarah Warbelow said, “Yet, rather than focus on actual policy issues facing Tennesseans, politicians would rather spend their time and effort passing as many anti-LGBTQ+ bills as they can.”
This bill marks the second major proposal that targets the LGBTQ community that Tennessee lawmakers have passed since their annual legislative session began in January. Last week, lawmakers approved legislation that bans most gender-affirming care. Governor Lee has indicated that he plans to sign that bill as well.
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