Conservatives Rush To Protect Kids From Liberal Predators

On Tuesday, the Arkansas Senate passed legislation designating drag performances as “adult-oriented enterprises” in order to safeguard children and prevent minors from attending.

The bill also proposes a restriction on drag queen performances on public property, which would effectively put a stop to Drag Queen Story Hour-style activities in public libraries.

“I can’t really think of anything positive that can come from putting kids in front of a bunch of older guys dressed as ladies,” Republican state Senator Gary Stubblefield, who filed the bill earlier this month, said.

The measure was approved 29-6 by the Republican-controlled Senate. The plan now proceeds to the Arkansas House of Representatives, where it is projected to pass with a Republican majority of 82-18.

In a statement, Eric Reece, director of the Human Rights Campaign in Arkansas, blasted the measure.

“Many drag performances are age suitable for children and may teach crucial skills like acceptance and openness,” Reece said.

“This is simply another example of extremist politicians in Arkansas disseminating falsehoods and fostering stigma, prejudice, and, eventually, violence towards transgender and non-binary persons in order to whip up extreme parts of their base,” he continued.

Along with Arkansas, Republicans in Tennessee have supported a drag queen ban that would restrict children from attending gatherings and performances. The Volunteer State proposal also aims to include drag shows among the adult-oriented companies that would be prohibited from operating within 1,000 feet of schools, public parks, or institutions of religion.

According to Jack Johnson, the majority leader in the Tennessee Senate, the Tennessee measure would allow certain exclusions, focusing on acts that are sexual in character.

Oklahoma lawmakers are also considering legislation prohibiting drag queen events involving youngsters, which could result in fines of up to $20,000 and up to two years in prison for individuals who act in front of children.

West Virginia is also said to be exploring similar legislation.

The campaign to pass anti-drag queen legislation to prohibit kids from participating in such activities stems from the increasing popularity of Drag Queen Story Hour programs hosted at schools and libraries around the country. Previous readings have drawn substantial opposition from parents and community members concerned about exposing children to sexualized materials.

Kirk Cameron has contributed to the issue by proposing a values-based alternative to reading his children’s book “As You Grow” at public libraries. Many of the same public libraries that have previously hosted Drag Queen Story Hour programs apparently turned him down.

Cameron eventually overcame what some call a double standard and got readings in various library locations. Cameron’s publisher stated earlier this month that almost 1,000 people packed a Southern California library for his visit.

“All the powers of darkness are no match for moms and fathers who are dedicated to God, their families, and teaching their children,” Cameron told the audience.