The Supreme Court has refused to hear a lawsuit challenging Tennessee’s controversial drag bans.
Memphis-based theater, Friends of George’s Inc., filed a lawsuit against the AEA, arguing that the ban is overly broad and vague, and effectively criminalizes their performances.
The state passed its Adult Entertainment Act, in 2023 and prohibits “adult cabaret entertainment” on public property or in any location where minors could view it.
The law defines these performances as ones that are “adult-oriented” and “harmful to minors,” including acts by topless dancers, go-go dancers, exotic dancers, strippers, and “male or female impersonators.”
The Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals dismissed the legal challenge in July, claiming that the plaintiffs did not have standing to sue. The decision reversed a lower court’s ruling that had declared the law unconstitutional.
The passing of the bill was largely motivated by the presence of drag queens in the 2022 Franklin Pride Festival.
Signed by Republican Gov. Bill Lee (R) it effectively made Tennessee the first state in the nation to ban drag performances. This led to huge protests led by the LGBTQ+ communities as well as celebrity allies.
“This court decision makes it clear that sexually explicit performances belong in spaces for adults, not in front of kids," Johnson says in a release. "Just because an event is labeled ‘family-friendly’ doesn’t mean it’s appropriate for children or reflects Tennessee’s values.”
Friends of George’s, who filed the suit, remain hopeful in their statement, saying: “This ruling does not define us.”
“Friends of George’s Theatre Company will continue exercising our First Amendment right to bring joyful, LGBTQ+ inclusive art into our community while raising thousands for charities that uphold dignity and respect for all.
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