Drag queen story hours across the country have been faced with bomb threats, backlash, and cancellations. The latest incident was a Pennsylvania Drag Queen Story Hour event on Saturday that was canceled after the target of threats was the venue where it was supposed to take place.
Talking with their local news station, event organizers, Lancaster Pride, denied claims of the events having a “woke agenda” instead, calling the group activity "100% family-friendly, age-appropriate."
"They are turning something that is so innocent into something that it's not, this is a family-friendly, fun time where we all get together and enjoy each other's company," Tiffany Shirley, president of Lancaster Pride told FOX43.
"There's no agenda, there is nothing indoctrinating or sexualizing in this event."
Despite efforts to continue, the Lancaster Pride ultimately decided to cancel the event to ensure the safety of everyone.
“We regret to inform you that due to unforeseen circumstances, the Lancaster Pride event: Drag Story Hour with Miss Amie in collaboration with the Lancaster Public Library has been canceled. The safety and well-being of our community are of utmost importance to us,” Lancaster Pride wrote on social media.
In recent years, the U.S. has seen a record number of bills targeting the LGBTQ+ community -- including putting restrictions on drag events.
However, legislation in both Texas and Tennessee were blocked, with judges citing the First Amendment and effectively calling drag bans unconstitutional.
State police bomb squad swept the Lancaster library with dogs and said that the package was “benign." However, police said “additional reported threats” that had been sent by email were still being investigated.
Drag up your life with a beautifully curated box made by your favorite drag queens! Subscribe to Drag Society today!