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2mo ago

Texas A&M System Bans Drag Shows Across All Campuses

The Board of Regents cites alignment with core values and potential for hostile environments as reasons for the decision, sparking legal and civil rights pushback.

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Stock photo showing drag queen Cheri Lake, who performs under the name 'Brigitte Bandit,' at the Cheer Up Charlies bar and nightclub on April 02, 2023 in Austin, Texas.
Drag queens Hanna Santanna and Lily Adonis Kline during a head-to-head lip-sync battle at the Draggieland show in Rudder Theater on Thursday March 28, 2024.

Overview

  • The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents unanimously voted to prohibit drag performances on its 11 campuses, including the annual Draggieland event.
  • The resolution claims drag shows conflict with the university's mission and values, citing concerns about respect and potential hostility toward women.
  • The ban has drawn criticism from civil rights groups and LGBTQ+ advocates, who argue it infringes on First Amendment rights and undermines inclusivity.
  • Students and organizers are seeking alternative venues for Draggieland and have criticized diminishing LGBTQ+ resources at Texas A&M in recent years.
  • The resolution follows similar controversies in Texas, including a 2023 lawsuit over a canceled drag show at West Texas A&M University, which remains unresolved.