Drag panic

File:Drag queen arrested in a bar raid 1962 (cropped).png, 1962|250x250px]]

{{See also|History of drag}}

Throughout much of the early-twentieth century, drag performances in the United States were criminalized under cross dressing laws.{{cite web |last1=Sears |first1=Clare |title=This Isn't the First Time Conservatives Have Banned Cross-Dressing in America |url=https://jacobin.com/2023/03/cross-dressing-law-united-states-history-drag-bans |date=March 15, 2023 |website=Jacobin |access-date=15 May 2023 |archive-date=May 15, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230515182119/https://jacobin.com/2023/03/cross-dressing-law-united-states-history-drag-bans |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |date=2015-05-31 |title=Arresting dress: A timeline of anti-cross-dressing laws in the United States |url=https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/arresting-dress-timeline-anti-cross-dressing-laws-u-s |access-date=2024-10-13 |website=PBS News |language=en-us}} The 1969 Stonewall Riots began after the New York City Police Department sought to arrest people for violating New York's informal "three-item rule" (which required individuals to wear at least three articles of clothing of their assigned sex).{{cite magazine |last=Dunham |first=Cyrus Grace |author-link=Cyrus Grace Dunham |title=Stuck in Stonewall |url=https://www.newyorker.com/culture/culture-desk/stuck-in-stonewall |magazine=The New Yorker |date=November 19, 2015 |access-date=15 May 2023 |archive-date=May 15, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230515182628/https://www.newyorker.com/culture/culture-desk/stuck-in-stonewall |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Lucero II |first=Louis |date=2019-06-16 |title=Memories of That Night at the Stonewall Inn, From Those Who Were There |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2019/06/16/us/revisiting-stonewall-memories-history.html |access-date=2024-10-13 |website=The New York Times}}{{Cite web |date=2021-02-04 |title=New York repeals 'walking while trans' law after years of activism |url=https://www.nbcnews.com/feature/nbc-out/new-york-repeals-walking-while-trans-law-after-years-activism-n1256736 |access-date=2024-10-13 |website=NBC News |language=en}}

As such laws were relaxed in the second half of the 20th century, drag appeared in works of wide popular relevance, such as Some Like It Hot (1959) and The Birdcage (1996), and the Australian film The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (1994).{{cite web |last=Cain |first=Matt |author-link=Matt Cain (writer) |title=History's most incredible drag queens and kings |url=https://www.bbc.com/culture/article/20230131-historys-most-incredible-drag-queens-and-kings |date=January 31, 2023 |access-date=April 24, 2023 |website=British Broadcasting Corporation |language=en-GB |archive-date=April 16, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230416224129/https://www.bbc.com/culture/article/20230131-historys-most-incredible-drag-queens-and-kings |url-status=live }} In the early 21st century, the art of drag continued to gain popularity and went mainstream in American culture, such as via RuPaul's Drag Race,{{cite web |last=Montgomery |first=Hugh |title=Is RuPaul's Drag Race good for drag? |url=https://www.bbc.com/culture/article/20191002-is-rupauls-drag-race-a-good-thing-for-drag |date=October 2, 2019 |access-date=April 24, 2023 |website=British Broadcasting Corporation |language=en-GB |archive-date=April 20, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230420200851/http://www.bbc.com/culture/article/20191002-is-rupauls-drag-race-a-good-thing-for-drag |url-status=live }} Queen of the Universe,{{cite web |last=Del Rosario |first=Alexandra |title='Queen Of The Universe': RuPaul To EP Paramount+ Drag Singing Competition, International Contestants Unveiled |url=https://deadline.com/2021/11/queen-of-the-universe-rupaul-ep-paramount-drag-singing-competition-international-contestants-unveiled-1234871478/ |date=November 10, 2021 |access-date=November 11, 2021 |website=Deadline Hollywood |archive-date=November 10, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211110195429/https://deadline.com/2021/11/queen-of-the-universe-rupaul-ep-paramount-drag-singing-competition-international-contestants-unveiled-1234871478/ |url-status=live }} and Drag Den.{{cite magazine |last=Nolfi |first=Joey |title='Drag Race' queen Manila Luzon says new 'Drag Den' series will 'take over the world' |url=https://ew.com/tv/manila-luzon-drag-den-season-1-preview/ |date=July 21, 2021 |access-date=November 16, 2022 |magazine=Entertainment Weekly |language=en |archive-date=November 17, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221117040159/https://ew.com/tv/manila-luzon-drag-den-season-1-preview/ |url-status=live }}

By 2019, as a reaction to the mainstream profile of drag, right-wing figures such as Chaya Raichik,{{cite web |last1=Cocker |first1=Alex |last2=Cocker |first2=Rose |title=The moral panic around drag makes even less sense in the UK's pantomime season |url=https://mronline.org/2022/12/22/the-moral-panic-around-drag-makes-even-less-sense-in-the-uks-pantomime-season/ |date=December 22, 2022 |access-date=March 3, 2023 |website=Monthly Review |language=en-US |archive-date=March 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230303042557/https://mronline.org/2022/12/22/the-moral-panic-around-drag-makes-even-less-sense-in-the-uks-pantomime-season/ |url-status=live }} Matt Walsh,{{cite news |title=Matt Walsh: Police need to "break down the doors" of drag shows |url=https://www.losangelesblade.com/2022/10/20/matt-walsh-police-need-to-break-down-the-doors-of-drag-shows/ |date=October 20, 2022 |access-date=March 3, 2023 |website=Los Angeles Blade |language=en-US |archive-date=March 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230303042558/https://www.losangelesblade.com/2022/10/20/matt-walsh-police-need-to-break-down-the-doors-of-drag-shows/ |url-status=live }}{{cite magazine |last=Olivier |first=Indigo |title=Transphobe of the Year: Matt Walsh |url=https://newrepublic.com/article/169609/transphobe-year-matt-walsh |date=December 27, 2022 |access-date=March 3, 2023 |magazine=The New Republic |issn=0028-6583 |archive-date=December 28, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221228142730/https://newrepublic.com/article/169609/transphobe-year-matt-walsh |url-status=live }} Tucker Carlson,{{cite web |last=Whitehouse |first=John |title=Fox spent more time attacking trans people and drag queens than it did covering the second January 6 hearing |url=https://www.mediamatters.org/january-6-insurrection/fox-spent-more-time-attacking-trans-people-and-drag-queens-it-did-covering |date=June 14, 2022 |access-date=March 3, 2023 |website=Media Matters for America |language=en |archive-date=March 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230303042556/https://www.mediamatters.org/january-6-insurrection/fox-spent-more-time-attacking-trans-people-and-drag-queens-it-did-covering |url-status=live }} Michael Knowles,{{cite news |last=Hesse |first=Monica |title=The right-wing drag panic is not about men wearing women's clothing |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/2023/03/16/right-wing-drag-panic-is-not-about-men-wearing-womens-clothing/ |access-date=March 17, 2023 |newspaper=The Washington Post |issn=0190-8286 |language=en-US |archive-date=March 17, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230317174704/https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/2023/03/16/right-wing-drag-panic-is-not-about-men-wearing-womens-clothing/ |url-status=live }} Dennis Prager,{{cite AV media |last=Prager |first=Dennis |title=Dennis Prager: Drag Queens in Schools |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ieTQseMJD6A |date=July 5, 2022 |access-date=March 17, 2023 |publisher=YouTube |language=en |archive-date=March 17, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230317171926/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ieTQseMJD6A |url-status=live }} Candace Owens,{{cite web |last=Kilander |first=Gustaf |date=June 17, 2022 |title=Critics rip Candace Owens for her absurd comments about drag queens |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/candace-owens-drag-children-parenting-b2103808.html |access-date=March 17, 2023 |website=The Independent |language=en |archive-date=March 17, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230317171925/https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/candace-owens-drag-children-parenting-b2103808.html |url-status=live }} and Ben Shapiro,{{cite AV media |last=Shapiro |first=Ben |title=If You Don't Cheer Drag Queen Story Hour, You're A Terrorist |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SVO8FzGMFUQ |date=November 22, 2022 |access-date=March 3, 2023 |publisher=YouTube |language=en |archive-date=March 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230303042552/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SVO8FzGMFUQ |url-status=live }} began to link drag queens to the LGBT grooming conspiracy theory, calling to limit their visibility.{{cite web |last=Perrett |first=Connor |title=Drag shows are the latest battleground in the right wing anti-gay disinformation campaign about 'grooming' |url=https://www.businessinsider.com/drag-queens-children-lgbtq-right-wing-libsoftiktok-idaho-patriot-front2022-6 |date=June 14, 2022 |access-date=April 11, 2023 |website=Insider |language=en-US |archive-date=March 10, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230310035227/https://www.businessinsider.com/drag-queens-children-lgbtq-right-wing-libsoftiktok-idaho-patriot-front2022-6 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last=Helmore |first=Edward |title=Republican legislators introduce new laws to crack down on drag shows |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/jan/21/anti-drag-show-laws-bans-republican-states |date=January 21, 2023 |access-date=April 14, 2023 |work=The Guardian |issn=0261-3077 |language=en-GB |archive-date=April 14, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230414160810/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/jan/21/anti-drag-show-laws-bans-republican-states |url-status=live }} Subsequently, a number of American states (with a Republican majority){{Cite news |last=Dress |first=Brad |date=2023-05-13 |title=Why the GOP is going to war over military drag queens |url=https://thehill.com/policy/defense/4002516-why-the-gop-is-going-to-war-over-military-drag-queens/ |access-date=2023-05-26 |website=The Hill |language=en-US |archive-date=May 26, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230526154433/https://thehill.com/policy/defense/4002516-why-the-gop-is-going-to-war-over-military-drag-queens/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Mizelle |first=Shawna |date=2023-02-05 |title=Republicans across the country push legislation to restrict drag show performances |url=https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/05/politics/drag-show-legislation/index.html |access-date=2023-05-26 |website=CNN |language=en |archive-date=April 22, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230422085608/https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/05/politics/drag-show-legislation/index.html |url-status=live }} proposed and approved laws intended to limit drag queen performances in public.{{Cite web |last=Andrew |first=Scottie |date=2023-04-29 |title=The US has a rich drag history. Here's why the art form will likely outlast attempts to restrict it |url=https://www.cnn.com/style/article/drag-queen-us-history-explainer-cec/index.html |access-date=2023-05-26 |website=CNN |language=en |archive-date=May 26, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230526154432/https://www.cnn.com/style/article/drag-queen-us-history-explainer-cec/index.html |url-status=live }}{{Cite magazine |first=Solcyre |last=Burga |date=2023-03-05 |title=Here's the Status of Anti-Drag Bills Across the U.S. |url=https://time.com/6260421/tennessee-limiting-drag-shows-status-of-anti-drag-bills-u-s/ |access-date=2023-05-26 |magazine=Time |language=en |archive-date=March 18, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230318104751/https://time.com/6260421/tennessee-limiting-drag-shows-status-of-anti-drag-bills-u-s/ |url-status=live }} Some protestors at LGBTQ+ and drag events have been armed with guns and explosives, and/or engaged in acts of violence or property damage. Similar anti-drag protests, sometimes amounting to threats or violence, have since been made in Australia,{{Cite web |last=Wilson |first=Cam |date=2023-05-18 |title=The far right's obsession with drag queen storytimes is spreading across Australia |url=https://www.crikey.com.au/2023/05/18/drag-queen-storytime-australia-far-right-protest/ |access-date=2024-04-02 |website=Crikey |language=en-US}} Canada,{{Cite web |title=How U.S. drag bans are shaping fears of rising hate, attacks in Canada - National |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/9756581/us-drag-bans-canada-impact-lgbtq2/ |access-date=2024-04-02 |website=Global News |language=en-US}} the UK{{Cite news |last1=Quinn |first1=Ben |date=2023-06-22 |title=Tory MPs contributing to growing hostility to drag events, report says |url=https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2023/jun/22/tory-mps-contributing-to-growing-hostility-to-drag-events-report-says |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328165008/https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2023/jun/22/tory-mps-contributing-to-growing-hostility-to-drag-events-report-says |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |access-date=2024-03-28 |work=The Guardian |language=en-GB |issn=0261-3077}}{{Cite web |title=Anti-Drag Mobilisation Efforts Targeting LGBTQ+ People in the UK |url=https://www.isdglobal.org/isd-publications/a-year-of-hate-anti-drag-mobilisation-efforts-targeting-lgbtq-people-in-the-uk/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328165013/https://www.isdglobal.org/isd-publications/a-year-of-hate-anti-drag-mobilisation-efforts-targeting-lgbtq-people-in-the-uk/ |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |access-date=2024-03-28 |website=ISD |language=en-GB}} and elsewhere, often influenced by these American right-wing figures.{{Cite web |date=2023-06-23 |title=Anti-drag protests, threats and violence ramp up across the U.S., report finds |url=https://www.nbcnews.com/nbc-out/out-news/anti-drag-protests-threats-violence-ramp-us-report-finds-rcna90599 |access-date=2024-04-02 |website=NBC News |language=en}}

File:Drag Queen Story Hour Protest - 52452239331.png in 2022.]]

Protests against drag performances, especially Drag Queen Story Hour, increased after the 2021 attacks at the United States Capitol.{{Cite news |last=Brend |first=Yvette |date=15 Dec 2022 |title=Drag storytimes have become a target of hate. Why some families love them anyway |work=CBC News |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/drag-queen-storytime-attacks-usa-canada-diversity-inclusion-hate-groups-gender-1.6685395 |access-date=March 24, 2023 |archive-date=March 17, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230317192717/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/drag-queen-storytime-attacks-usa-canada-diversity-inclusion-hate-groups-gender-1.6685395 |url-status=live }} The most vocal opponents are mostly affiliated with alt-right groups. Former Fox News host Tucker Carlson suggested that drag events could "indoctrinate or sexualize" children. Protestors also have expressed homophobic conspiracy theories that performers are grooming children.{{Cite web |last=Ottenhof |first=Luke |date=29 Nov 2022 |title='I don't feel safe': Ontario drag performers reckon with heightened risk |url=https://www.tvo.org/article/i-dont-feel-safe-ontario-drag-performers-reckon-with-heightened-risk |access-date=2022-12-31 |website=TVO |archive-date=December 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221221013147/https://www.tvo.org/article/i-dont-feel-safe-ontario-drag-performers-reckon-with-heightened-risk |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |url=https://www.adl.org/resources/blog/what-grooming-truth-behind-dangerous-bigoted-lie-targeting-lgbtq-community |title=What is 'Grooming?' The Truth Behind the Dangerous, Bigoted Lie Targeting the LGBTQ+ Community |author=Center on Extremism |date=2022-09-16 |access-date=2022-12-31 |website=Anti-Defamation League |language=en |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213082215/https://www.adl.org/resources/blog/what-grooming-truth-behind-dangerous-bigoted-lie-targeting-lgbtq-community |url-status=live }} The Anti-Defamation League reported that the child abuse conspiracy theory has been fueled by the Libs of TikTok, a far-right Twitter account.

LGBTQ media advocacy group GLAAD reported over 140 threats against drag shows in the US, throughout 2022.{{Cite news |last=Simpson |first=Katie |author-link=Katie Simpson |date=8 Dec 2022 |title=As drag shows in the U.S. are increasingly targeted, the community fears violence |work=CBC News |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/drag-shows-targeted-us-1.6677999 |access-date=March 24, 2023 |archive-date=March 18, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230318173233/https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/drag-shows-targeted-us-1.6677999 |url-status=live }} According to a 2022 GLAAD analysis of United States media, social media, and news coverage, as of December 14, 2022, there had been at least "141 incidents in 2022 of anti-LGBTQ protests and threats targeting specific drag events, including during Pride festivities and false rhetoric against performers deployed in campaign ads for the midterm elections." The report also stated incidents included "armed white supremacists demonstrating in Texas and the firebombing of a Tulsa donut shop that had hosted a drag event in October."{{cite web |title=UPDATED GLAAD Report: Drag events faced at least 141 protests and significant threats in 2022 |url=https://glaad.org/glaad-report-drag-events-faced-least-125-protests-and-significant-threats-2022/ |website=glaad.org |publisher=GLAAD |access-date=24 August 2023 |date=21 November 2022 |archive-date=September 9, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230909044459/https://glaad.org/glaad-report-drag-events-faced-least-125-protests-and-significant-threats-2022/ |url-status=live }} USA Today reported that harassment including threats of lynching and castration had been made to drag performers.{{Cite web |last=Dreilinger |first=Danielle |title=Drag shows have a long history in the South. Why are they drawing threats now? |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2022/12/13/drag-shows-american-south-drawing-threats/10885127002/ |access-date=2024-04-02 |website=USA TODAY |language=en-US}}

In June 2022, "Drag Your Kids to Pride", an event at Mr Misster, a gay bar in Dallas, Texas, resulted in protests after videos from the event showed drag queens dancing while children and their parents watched and tipped them.{{Cite web |date=2022-06-06 |title=Texas legislator proposes ban on minors watching drag shows |url=https://www.nbcnews.com/nbc-out/out-politics-and-policy/texas-lawmaker-proposes-ban-minors-watching-drag-shows-rcna32183 |access-date=2024-05-01 |website=NBC News |language=en}} Attendees said the event was a celebration; the children played musical chairs and some of them walked on the catwalk with performers.{{Cite web |last=Hudson |first=David |date=2022-06-06 |title=Dallas drag show for kids prompts street protest and conservative meltdown |url=https://www.queerty.com/dallas-drag-show-kids-prompts-street-protest-conservative-meltdown-20220606 |access-date=2024-05-01 |website=Queerty}} Protesters accused the organizers and performers of "grooming" children and objected to a sign in the background of the club that read, "It’s Not Gonna Lick Itself".{{Cite web |last=Russell Falcon |first=Nexstar Media Wire |date=2022-06-07 |title=Dallas drag queen event for kids sparks outrage, defense |url=https://thehill.com/homenews/wire/3514357-dallas-drag-queen-event-for-kids-sparks-outrage-defense/ |access-date=2024-05-01 |website=The Hill |language=en-US}} In response, protesters made transphobic and homophobic remarks, as well as sending several hundred threatening emails, making threatening phones calls, and leaving negative reviews online. Republican Representative Bryan Slaton from northeast Texas said he would file a bill to ban children from viewing such events.{{Cite web |last=Patton |first=Mary Claire |date=2022-06-09 |title=Texas lawmaker says he wants to ban minors from watching drag shows following Dallas event |url=https://www.ksat.com/news/local/2022/06/09/texas-lawmaker-says-he-wants-to-ban-minors-from-watching-drag-shows-following-dallas-event/ |access-date=2024-05-01 |website=KSAT |language=en}}

A January 2023 report by the Anti-Defamation League, titled "Online Amplifiers of Anti-LGBTQ+ Extremism" noted groups involved in protests against drag shows included Gays Against Groomers, Blaze Media, the Texas Family Project, Defend Our Kids Texas, and the Aryan Freedom Network.{{cite web |title=Online Amplifiers of Anti-LGBTQ+ Extremism |url=https://www.adl.org/resources/article/online-amplifiers-anti-lgbtq-extremism |website=www.adl.org |publisher=Anti-Defamation League |access-date=26 August 2023 |language=en |date=January 24, 2023 |archive-date=February 7, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230207192224/https://www.adl.org/resources/blog/online-amplifiers-anti-lgbtq-extremism |url-status=live }}

In May 2023, masked neo-Nazi groups in Ohio protested a drag event in Columbus, carrying anti-drag and anti-trans banners, such as one that read, "there will be blood."{{cite news |last1=Filby |first1=Max |title=Nazis protest at Land-Grant drag brunch: Here's what you need to know now |url=https://www.dispatch.com/story/news/2023/05/01/heres-what-we-know-about-the-nazis-protesting-a-columbus-drag-brunch/70169948007/ |access-date=July 1, 2023 |work=The Columbus Dispatch |date=May 1, 2023 |archive-date=September 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230903022840/https://www.dispatch.com/story/news/2023/05/01/heres-what-we-know-about-the-nazis-protesting-a-columbus-drag-brunch/70169948007/ |url-status=live }}{{cite web |last1=McNeill |first1=Zane |title=Nazis Carrying Banner That Says, 'There Will Be Blood' Protest Ohio Drag Brunch |url=https://truthout.org/articles/nazis-carrying-banner-that-says-there-will-be-blood-protest-ohio-drag-brunch/ |website=Truthout |date=May 2, 2023 |access-date=15 May 2023 |archive-date=May 15, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230515183405/https://truthout.org/articles/nazis-carrying-banner-that-says-there-will-be-blood-protest-ohio-drag-brunch/ |url-status=live }}

In May 2023, Montana became the first state in the United States to specifically ban people dressed in drag from reading books to children at public schools and libraries regardless of the sexual significance of the event.{{Cite news |date=2023-05-24 |title=Montana first to ban people dressed in drag from reading to children in schools, libraries |url=https://apnews.com/article/drag-story-ban-montana-transgender-445fb457909476770610217906b3fac5 |access-date=2023-05-26 |work=Associated Press |language=en |archive-date=May 26, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230526153550/https://apnews.com/article/drag-story-ban-montana-transgender-445fb457909476770610217906b3fac5 |url-status=live }}{{Cite news |url=https://www.nbcnews.com/nbc-out/out-politics-and-policy/montana-first-ban-drag-performers-reading-children-rcna85977 |date=2023-05-24 |title=Montana first to ban drag performers from reading to children |access-date=2023-05-26 |website=NBC News |agency=Associated Press |language=en |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230530055607/https://www.nbcnews.com/nbc-out/out-politics-and-policy/montana-first-ban-drag-performers-reading-children-rcna85977 |archive-date=2023-05-30 |url-status=live}} In July 2023, a federal judge blocked the ban from taking effect. In October 2023, another federal judge upheld the block.{{Cite web |title=Montana judge keeps in place a ban on enforcement of law restricting drag shows, drag reading events |url=https://apnews.com/article/montana-drag-shows-ruling-ee8adb41c142718ec4b5047d0f3f36be |access-date=2024-02-08 |website=AP News |date=October 13, 2023 |language=en |archive-date=February 17, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240217003916/https://apnews.com/article/montana-drag-shows-ruling-ee8adb41c142718ec4b5047d0f3f36be |url-status=live }}

In June 2023, Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed a law banning public drag performances.{{cite web |last1=Riley |first1=John |title=Texas Governor Signs Law Banning Drag Performances in Public Businesses |url=https://www.metroweekly.com/2023/06/texas-governor-signs-law-banning-drag-performances-in-public/ |website=Metro Weekly |date=June 23, 2023 |access-date=June 26, 2023 |archive-date=June 26, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230626003837/https://www.metroweekly.com/2023/06/texas-governor-signs-law-banning-drag-performances-in-public/ |url-status=live }} In September 2023, a federal judge blocked the ban from taking effect saying it was unconstitutional.{{cite news |last=Lavietes |first=Matt |title=Federal judge declares Texas drag law unconstitutional |url=https://www.nbcnews.com/nbc-out/out-politics-and-policy/federal-judge-declares-texas-drag-law-unconstitutional-rcna117486 |website=NBC News |date=September 26, 2023 |access-date=February 10, 2024 |archive-date=January 17, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240117053732/https://www.nbcnews.com/nbc-out/out-politics-and-policy/federal-judge-declares-texas-drag-law-unconstitutional-rcna117486 |url-status=live }} Also in June 2023, a U.S. judge blocked a Florida law restricting drag performances from taking effect.{{cite news |last1=Trotta |first1=Daniel |title=U.S. court blocks Florida law restricting drag performances |url=https://www.reuters.com/legal/us-court-blocks-florida-law-restricting-drag-performances-2023-06-23/ |website=Reuters |date=June 23, 2023 |access-date=June 26, 2023 |archive-date=June 26, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230626154342/https://www.reuters.com/legal/us-court-blocks-florida-law-restricting-drag-performances-2023-06-23/ |url-status=live }}

In mid-June 2022, the far-right Twitter account Libs of TikTok condemned the upcoming Coeur d'Alene, Idaho's "Pride in the Park" festival due to a "family-friendly drag performance."{{Cite web |title=UPDATED GLAAD Report: Drag events faced at least 141 protests and significant threats in 2022 |url=https://www.glaad.org/blog/glaad-report-drag-events-faced-least-124-protests-and-significant-threats-2022 |access-date=2023-03-03 |website=GLAAD |date=November 21, 2022 |language=en |archive-date=March 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230303045901/https://www.glaad.org/blog/glaad-report-drag-events-faced-least-124-protests-and-significant-threats-2022 |url-status=live }} On June 11, 2022, during the pride event, law enforcement arrested 31 members of the white nationalist hate group Patriot Front, later charging them with conspiracy to riot.{{Cite news |last=Hayden |first=Michael Edison |date=14 June 2022 |title=Far-right Influencers Hyped Coeur D'Alene Pride Before Patriot Front Showed Up |work=Southern Poverty Law Center |url=https://www.splcenter.org/hatewatch/2022/06/14/far-right-influencers-hyped-coeur-dalene-pride-patriot-front-showed |access-date=22 March 2023 |archive-date=March 24, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230324164452/https://www.splcenter.org/hatewatch/2022/06/14/far-right-influencers-hyped-coeur-dalene-pride-patriot-front-showed |url-status=live }}

In July 2023, Kristi Maris, a schoolteacher of nineteen years, was fired from her job at the First Baptist Academy in Baytown, Texas after posting a picture of herself attending a drag show at Hamburger Mary's in Houston on Facebook with the caption, "This was such a blast!!!!". The email that Maris received from the school about the termination of her job claimed that she had breached the school's operating policies manual, which stated that employees "will act in a godly and moral fashion at work, on Facebook and in (the teachers') community".{{cite web |url=https://www.chron.com/news/houston-texas/article/houston-drag-show-teacher-texas-18262402.php |title=Houston-area teacher fired for attending drag show at downtown bar |last=Murney |first=Michael |website=chron.com |date=July 26, 2023 |publisher=Hearst Newspapers, LLC |access-date=July 27, 2023 |archive-date=July 26, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230726224214/https://www.chron.com/news/houston-texas/article/houston-drag-show-teacher-texas-18262402.php |url-status=live }}

{{Main article|Tennessee Adult Entertainment Act}}

On March 2, 2023, Tennessee governor Bill Lee signed the Tennessee Senate Bill 3 to equate drag queen performances with sexual performers.{{Cite news |first=Matt |last=Lavietes |title=Tennessee governor signs first-of-its-kind bill restricting drag shows |url=https://www.nbcnews.com/feature/nbc-out/tennessee-governor-signs-first-its-kind-bill-restricting-drag-shows-n1303262 |access-date=2023-03-03 |website=NBC News |language=en |archive-date=March 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230303042552/https://www.nbcnews.com/feature/nbc-out/tennessee-governor-signs-first-its-kind-bill-restricting-drag-shows-n1303262 |url-status=live }} This bill faced widespread opposition throughout the United States, including from politicians and drag queens.{{cite web |last=Baker-Jordan |first=Skylar |date=March 2, 2023 |title=Why the Tennessee ban on drag shows should terrify us all |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/voices/tennessee-drag-show-ban-queens-b2289083.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230308023652/http://www.independent.co.uk/voices/tennessee-drag-show-ban-queens-b2289083.html |archive-date=March 8, 2023 |access-date=March 8, 2023 |website=The Independent}} Subsequently, a 1977 photo emerged of Lee dressed in a female cheerleading outfit in the company of high school classmates.{{Cite news |last=Wendling |first=Mike |author-link=Mike Wendling |date=March 2, 2023 |title=Tennessee curbs trans treatment and drag for children |language=en-GB |website=BBC News |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-64830835 |url-status=live |access-date=2023-03-03 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230303042552/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-64830835 |archive-date=March 3, 2023}}{{Cite web |last=Bacallao |first=Marianna |date=March 2, 2023 |title=Gov. Bill Lee signs into law a ban on drag shows. Performers say it's too subjective. |url=https://wpln.org/post/gov-bill-lee-signs-into-law-a-ban-on-drag-shows-performers-say-the-law-is-too-subjective/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230303042557/https://wpln.org/post/gov-bill-lee-signs-into-law-a-ban-on-drag-shows-performers-say-the-law-is-too-subjective/ |archive-date=March 3, 2023 |access-date=2023-03-03 |website=WPLN-FM |language=en-US}} The ban was later ruled unconstitutional in June 2023 in federal district court.{{Cite web |last=Gans |first=Jared |date=2023-06-03 |title=Federal judge rules Tennessee restrictions on drag shows unconstitutional |url=https://thehill.com/regulation/court-battles/4033015-federal-judge-rules-tennessee-restrictions-on-drag-shows-unconstitutional/ |access-date=2023-12-04 |website=The Hill |language=en-US |archive-date=October 22, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231022020758/https://thehill.com/regulation/court-battles/4033015-federal-judge-rules-tennessee-restrictions-on-drag-shows-unconstitutional/ |url-status=live }} On July 18, 2024, a three-judge panel on the Sixth Circuit reinstated the law by ruling that the plaintiffs had lacked the standing to sue. The ruling did not address whether the law was constitutional.{{Cite news |last=Bacallao |first=Marianna |date=2024-07-18 |title=Tennessee's drag ban is back after appeals court ruling |work=WPLN |url=https://wpln.org/post/tennessees-drag-ban-is-back-after-appeals-court-ruling/ |access-date=2024-07-20}}

Anti-drag protests in Canada have been influenced by the American anti-drag and anti-LGBTQ+ movement. This has led to an increase in anti-LGBTQ+ hate. At present, however, this has not yet extended to anti-drag legislation.

On November 23, 2022, people protested a drag storytelling event in the Kitsilano neighborhood of Vancouver, accusing the event of "sexualizing children."{{cite web |last=Marsten |first=Emily |title=Emotions flare as protestors gather outside drag queen story time event in Kitsilano |url=https://vancouver.citynews.ca/2022/11/26/kitsilano-drag-queen-story-protest/ |date=November 26, 2022 |access-date=January 2, 2023 |website=CityNews |archive-date=January 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230102095625/https://vancouver.citynews.ca/2022/11/26/kitsilano-drag-queen-story-protest/ |url-status=live }} The next day, Book Keeper independent book shop in Sarnia, was protested by 10–12 men wearing masks and balaclavas as it hosted its fourth Drag Queen Story Time event.{{cite news |last=Janzer |first=Stacey |title=Protests won't stop Drag Queen Story Time in Sarnia, bookstore owner says |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/windsor/drag-queen-storytime-sarnia-1.6683295 |date=December 13, 2022 |access-date=December 31, 2022 |website=CBC News |archive-date=December 28, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221228153450/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/windsor/drag-queen-storytime-sarnia-1.6683295 |url-status=live }} Also in November 2022, an event at Kelseys Original Roadhouse in Burlington, featuring Guelph drag queen Crystal Quartz was canceled following threats made towards the restaurant.{{cite web |last=Charaani |first=James |title=Guelph drag queen sees all-ages shows targeted by social media campaigns |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/kitchener-waterloo/crystal-quartz-drag-show-brunch-1.6674187 |date=December 6, 2022 |access-date=December 31, 2022 |website=CBC News |archive-date=December 22, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221222180605/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/kitchener-waterloo/crystal-quartz-drag-show-brunch-1.6674187 |url-status=live }}

On December 19, 2022, fourteen protestors gathered outside Brockville Public Library in Ontario as it held its first Drag Story Time event.{{cite web |last=Peddigrew |first=Ryan |title=Opposing protest groups clash outside Brockville, Ont. drag event |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/9360688/protest-outside-brockville-ont-drag-story-time/ |date=December 19, 2022 |access-date=December 31, 2022 |website=Global News |archive-date=December 31, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221231161541/https://globalnews.ca/news/9360688/protest-outside-brockville-ont-drag-story-time/ |url-status=live }} The protestors were met by counter-protestors, which included the library's CEO. Police searched the library for explosive devices after a threat was made.

Twice in December 2022, protestors interrupted drag performances at the Britbar venue in Penticton, British Columbia, and at DunnEnzies restaurant in British Columbia's Okanagan.{{cite news |last=Wasney |first=Jayden |title=Second drag show disrupted by protestors in one week in the Okanagan |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/9339516/penticton-drag-show-protest/ |date=December 9, 2022 |access-date=December 29, 2022 |website=Global News |language=en-CA |archive-date=December 28, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221228153450/https://globalnews.ca/news/9339516/penticton-drag-show-protest/ |url-status=live }}{{cite web |last=White |first=Cindy |title=Police disperse protest against drag show at DunnEnzies in Kelowna |url=https://www.castanet.net/news/Kelowna/400502/Police-disperse-protest-against-drag-show-at-DunnEnzies-in-Kelowna |date=December 8, 2022 |access-date=January 2, 2023 |website=Castanet |archive-date=January 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230102095623/https://www.castanet.net/news/Kelowna/400502/Police-disperse-protest-against-drag-show-at-DunnEnzies-in-Kelowna}}

Events in January, February, March, May, and June 2023 by performer Betty Baker were protested at the Peterborough Public Library in Ontario by Kevin Goudreau, Save Canada, and other individuals. On all occasions protesters were outnumbered by counter-protesters.{{cite web |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/drag-storytime-events-1.6967566 |title=These drag performers say protests, threats won't stop them from reading to kids at storytime events |last1=Zoledziowski |first1=Anya |last2=Sheldon |first2=Mia |date=September 16, 2023 |website=CBC |access-date=January 23, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230916152756/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/drag-storytime-events-1.6967566 |archive-date=September 16, 2023}}

In July 2022, right-wing groups protested Drag Queen Story Hour at Reading Central Library in Berkshire.{{cite web |last=Aldridge |first=James |date=July 26, 2022 |title=Police stationed outside library amid protests over Drag Queen storybook event |url=https://www.readingchronicle.co.uk/news/20580346.like-reading-drag-queen-story-hour-protest/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230102101633/https://www.readingchronicle.co.uk/news/20580346.like-reading-drag-queen-story-hour-protest/ |archive-date=January 2, 2023 |access-date=January 2, 2023 |website=Reading Chronicle}}{{cite web |last=John |first=Tara |date=August 4, 2022 |title=Drag queen storytime in England promotes compassion and inclusion. British far-right extremists are importing US hate against them |url=https://www.cnn.com/2022/08/04/europe/lgbtq-drag-queen-far-right-protests-intl/index.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230102101631/https://www.cnn.com/2022/08/04/europe/lgbtq-drag-queen-far-right-protests-intl/index.html |archive-date=2023-01-02 |access-date=January 2, 2023 |website=CNN}} The event featured Sab Samuel performing in drag as Aida H Dee.{{cite news |last=Jonze |first=Tim |date=August 11, 2022 |title='I'm just trying to make the world a little brighter': how the culture wars hijacked Drag Queen Story Hour |url=https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2022/aug/11/im-just-trying-to-make-the-world-a-little-brighter-how-the-culture-wars-hijacked-drag-queen-story-hour |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230101134311/https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2022/aug/11/im-just-trying-to-make-the-world-a-little-brighter-how-the-culture-wars-hijacked-drag-queen-story-hour |archive-date=January 1, 2023 |access-date=January 2, 2023 |website=The Guardian}} Subsequent protests occurred in Crewe and Bristol, and at Glastonbury Public Library.{{cite news |last=Malloy |first=Tomas |date=October 23, 2022 |title=Dozens protest as library hosts drag queen event for children |url=https://www.somersetlive.co.uk/news/somerset-news/drag-queen-story-hour-50-7497999 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230102101847/https://www.somersetlive.co.uk/news/somerset-news/drag-queen-story-hour-50-7497999 |archive-date=January 2, 2023 |access-date=January 2, 2023 |website=Somerset Live}} In August 2022, 50 protestors were met with about 300 counter-protestors outside a drag event at Oxfordshire County Library;{{cite news |date=August 23, 2022 |title=Supporters and protesters turn out at Oxford drag queen kids' storytime |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-oxfordshire-62639419 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230102101627/https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-oxfordshire-62639419 |archive-date=January 2, 2023 |access-date=January 2, 2023 |work=BBC South}} police kept the two groups separated. The same month, a drag show featuring Matthew Cavan performing as drag queen Cherri Ontop in Belfast was the target of a protest. Flyers promoting protests to drag performances in the UK were shared in anti-vaccination Telegram groups.

A 2023 report from the Institute for Strategic Dialogue noted an increase in extremist groups targeting LGBTQ+ and drag storytime events in the UK, and accused Conservative MPs of contributing to growing hostility towards LGBTQ+ people in the country. The report also noted that many of these messages were being imported from the US and were being used to provoke "culture wars" at home. According to the report, the UK was second only to the US in terms of anti-drag protests. Report author Aoife Gallagher said, "These incidents should not be viewed in isolation; they speak to a wider anti-LGBTQ+ mobilisation in the UK and they raise concerns about a backsliding trend in LGBTQ+ rights. Although counter-protesters at drag events often outnumbered protesters, this is not enough to protect these communities."

Helsinki Central Library Oodi arranged a drag queen story hour in conjunction with to the Helsinki Pride festival on 1 July 2022. The performer, nicknamed Gaylien 2000, declined to reveal their true identity. Around 25-30 protesters demonstrated and conducted speeches in front of the library, after which some of them entered the library in an attempt to block the event. This prompted a large police response. The performer had been accused of paedophilia and threatened online before the event.{{cite web | url=https://www.is.fi/kotimaa/art-2000008921143.html | title=Poliisi selvittää, onko Oodin satuhetkeä häirinneitä epäiltävä rikoksesta – näin tapahtumat etenivät |trans-title=Police investigating whether disruptors of Oodi story time committed a crime |website=Ilta-Sanomat |language=fi| date=1 July 2022 | access-date=April 24, 2023 | archive-date=April 12, 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230412143118/https://www.is.fi/kotimaa/art-2000008921143.html | url-status=live }}{{cite web | url=https://www.mtvuutiset.fi/artikkeli/mielenosoittajat-yrittivat-estaa-drag-artistin-vetaman-lasten-satuhetken-oodissa-kasittamatonta-etta-tehdaan-olkiukko-mita-vastaan-hyokataan/8461584 | title=Mielenosoittajat yrittivät estää drag-artistin vetämän lasten satuhetken Oodissa – "Käsittämätöntä, että tehdään olkiukko, mitä vastaan hyökätään" |trans-title=Demonstrators try to prevent children's drag story time in Oodi | date=July 2022 | access-date=April 24, 2023 |language=fi |archive-date=April 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230413065744/https://www.mtvuutiset.fi/artikkeli/mielenosoittajat-yrittivat-estaa-drag-artistin-vetaman-lasten-satuhetken-oodissa-kasittamatonta-etta-tehdaan-olkiukko-mita-vastaan-hyokataan/8461584 | url-status=live }}

Cultural center Malmitalo in Helsinki planned to screen a documentary named Drag Kids during a festival in 2023. The event was canceled due to a security threat. The documentary contained scenes where a child danced at a nightclub and received a tip from a drag queen, which Children's Ombudsman Elina Pekkarinen considered inappropriate and sexualizing.{{cite news |title=Drag Kids -elokuvan poisveto aiheutti kuohuntaa – "Tilanteeseen liittyi myös merkittävä turvallisuusuhka" |trans-title=Withdrawal of Drag Kids movie causes an uproar |website=MTV3 |language=fi |url=https://www.mtvuutiset.fi/artikkeli/drag-kids-elokuvan-poisveto-aiheutti-kuohuntaa-tilanteeseen-liittyi-myos-merkittava-turvallisuusuhka/8683474#gs.y2is2v |access-date=May 19, 2023 |archive-date=May 19, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230519101604/https://www.mtvuutiset.fi/artikkeli/drag-kids-elokuvan-poisveto-aiheutti-kuohuntaa-tilanteeseen-liittyi-myos-merkittava-turvallisuusuhka/8683474#gs.y2is2v |url-status=live }}

{{Main article|Drag and the Olympic Games}}

In 2023, a reading story hour activity in Toulouse was cancelled due to protests on social media by extremist groups.{{Cite web |url=https://www.20minutes.fr/societe/4020297-20230124-toulouse-face-critiques-lecture-enfants-animee-deux-drag-queens-deprogrammee-mairie |title=Un atelier pour enfants animé par des drag-queens fait débat à Toulouse |date=January 24, 2023 |website=20 minutes |access-date=April 24, 2023 |language=fr |trans-title=A children's activity led by drag queens is the subject of debate in Toulouse |archive-date=April 19, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230419082939/https://www.20minutes.fr/societe/4020297-20230124-toulouse-face-critiques-lecture-enfants-animee-deux-drag-queens-deprogrammee-mairie |url-status=live }}

During the opening ceremony of the 2024 Summer Olympics a group of drag queens recreated a Banquet of the Gods of Dionysian type but some political and journalistic figures linked the event to Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper, accusing the drag queens of blasphemy.{{Cite web |date=2024-07-27 |title='An Abomination, Blasphemy': Paris Olympics Drag Show Parodying The Last Supper Sparks Outrage {{!}} WATCH |url=https://www.news18.com/world/an-abomination-blasphemy-paris-olympics-ceremony-sparks-outrage-with-drag-queens-parodying-last-supper-8980405.html |access-date=2024-07-31 |website=News18 |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Rose |first=Michel |date=July 27, 2024 |title=Paris ceremony 'Last Supper' parody sparks controversy |url=https://www.reuters.com/sports/olympics/paris-ceremony-last-supper-parody-sparks-controversy-2024-07-27/ |url-status= |access-date=July 31, 2024 |website=Reuters}}{{Cite web |last=CNA |title=Catholics, others respond to mockery of Last Supper at Paris Olympics |url=https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/258428/catholics-others-respond-to-mockery-of-last-supper-at-paris-olympics |access-date=2024-07-31 |website=Catholic News Agency |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=2024-07-30 |title=Opinion {{!}} The ridiculous moral panic over the Olympics' opening ceremony |url=https://www.yahoo.com/news/opinion-ridiculous-moral-panic-over-011817604.html |access-date=2024-07-31 |website=Yahoo News |language=en-US}} This also prompted a series of death and rape threats to Barbara Butch, the lesbian DJ and fat-acceptance activist at the center of the event.{{Cite web |date=2024-07-30 |title=Opinion {{!}} The ridiculous moral panic over the Olympics' opening ceremony |url=https://www.msnbc.com/opinion/msnbc-opinion/olympics-2024-apology-christians-last-supper-elon-musk-mike-johnson-rcna164008 |access-date=2024-07-31 |website=MSNBC.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Goodfellow |first=Melanie |date=2024-07-30 |title=DJ In Controversial Olympics Opening Ceremony Scene Files Police Complaints Following Death & Rape Threats |url=https://deadline.com/2024/07/french-dj-in-controversial-olympics-opening-ceremony-police-complaints-death-rape-threats-1236026281/ |access-date=2024-07-31 |website=Deadline |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |date=2024-07-30 |title=After controversial Olympic opening ceremony, DJ complains of abuse, probe launched |url=https://www.ctvnews.ca/sports/after-controversial-olympic-opening-ceremony-dj-complains-of-abuse-probe-launched-1.6983032 |access-date=2024-07-31 |website=CTVNews |language=en}}

In July 2018, Adam Larkham, performing as "Roxee Horror", received abuse and threats for storytime events at Wollongong Library.{{Cite web |date=2018-07-17 |title=Wollongong drag queen reacts to library's story time backlash |url=https://www.illawarramercury.com.au/story/5530775/wollongong-drag-queen-reacts-to-librarys-story-time-backlash/ |access-date=2024-03-28 |website=Illawarra Mercury |language=en-AU |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328165008/https://www.illawarramercury.com.au/story/5530775/wollongong-drag-queen-reacts-to-librarys-story-time-backlash/ |url-status=live }} Larkham later said he was worried he was "going to get shot in the face" due to the threats he received when the event was shared on Facebook by the former Labor leader Mark Latham.{{Cite web |title="Sick, evil": Melbourne library responds to online abuse over kids drag 'storytime' event |url=https://www.sbs.com.au/news/the-feed/article/sick-evil-melbourne-library-responds-to-online-abuse-over-kids-drag-storytime-event/cpevv6obc |access-date=2024-03-28 |website=SBS News |language=en |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328170513/https://www.sbs.com.au/news/the-feed/article/sick-evil-melbourne-library-responds-to-online-abuse-over-kids-drag-storytime-event/cpevv6obc |url-status=live }}

In May 2019, the drag queen "Annie Depressant" received abuse for an event at Whittlesea Library; the conservative Facebook page Political Posting Mumma (run by Marijke Rancie) had called on its "warriors" to respond to the library's social media posts to protest the event.{{Cite web |last=Jones |first=Jesse |date=2019-05-13 |title=Melbourne drag queen target of homophobia and transphobia over library storytime |url=https://www.starobserver.com.au/news/national-news/victoria-news/melbourne-drag-queen-attacked-over-drag-story-time/182011 |access-date=2024-03-28 |website=Star Observer |language=en-US |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328175023/https://www.starobserver.com.au/news/national-news/victoria-news/melbourne-drag-queen-attacked-over-drag-story-time/182011 |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |date=2024-03-29 |title=Drag queen abused for reading to kids at library's storytime |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/lifestyle/drag-queen-abused-for-reading-to-kids-at-librarys-storytime/2YYL3MNPAEUOZZWU6YQVJMGKLQ/ |access-date=2024-03-28 |website=NZ Herald |language=en-NZ |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328170512/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/lifestyle/drag-queen-abused-for-reading-to-kids-at-librarys-storytime/2YYL3MNPAEUOZZWU6YQVJMGKLQ/ |url-status=live }} In January 2020, Annie Depressant was also faced with a small group of protesters during an event for children and their parents at Werribee Plaza Library. The families chanted "we love drag queens" as a counterprotest when they left the event.{{Cite web |date=2020-01-22 |title=Children unite to respond after protesters mob their drag queen book reading event |url=https://7news.com.au/news/vic/protesters-surround-drag-queen-reading-event-at-library-in-melbournes-west-c-659729 |access-date=2024-03-28 |website=7NEWS |language=en |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328165009/https://7news.com.au/news/vic/protesters-surround-drag-queen-reading-event-at-library-in-melbournes-west-c-659729 |url-status=live }}

On September 30, 2022, a family-friendly youth festival in Moonee Ponds, Melbourne was cut short when the white supremacist National Socialist Network, a group of Australian neo-Nazis founded by convicted criminal Thomas Sewell, interrupted the event because it hosted drag performers. The protesters reportedly made homophobic, transphobic and antisemitic comments; the protest was described as "distressing, offensive and illegal" by Victoria's Minister for Equality Harriet Shing.{{Cite web |last=Thomas |first=Shibu |date=2022-10-03 |title=Melbourne Neo-Nazis Target Drag Performer At Family-Friendly Youth Fest |url=https://www.starobserver.com.au/news/melbourne-neo-nazis-target-drag-performer-at-family-friendly-youth-fest/217074 |access-date=2024-03-28 |website=Star Observer |language=en-US |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328175021/https://www.starobserver.com.au/news/melbourne-neo-nazis-target-drag-performer-at-family-friendly-youth-fest/217074 |url-status=live }}

In November 2022, South Australian Liberal Senator Alex Antic accused drag performer Courtney Act's ABC show of "grooming Australian children". Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young challenged the comments and said they were deeply offensive to many, including survivors of sexual assault.{{Cite web |last=Thomas |first=Shibu |date=2022-11-08 |title=Liberal Senator Alex Antic Uses Offensive 'Grooming' Slur Against Courtney Act's ABC Show |url=https://www.starobserver.com.au/news/liberal-senator-alex-antic-uses-offensive-grooming-slur-against-courtney-acts-abc-show/218125 |access-date=2024-03-28 |website=Star Observer |language=en-US |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328172016/https://www.starobserver.com.au/news/liberal-senator-alex-antic-uses-offensive-grooming-slur-against-courtney-acts-abc-show/218125 |url-status=live }}

On December 8, 2022, the Glitter Nova event (aimed at people aged 16–25) scheduled at Victorian Pride Centre was postponed following threats of protest from neo-Nazis. Anti-fascist researcher Andy Fleming argued against canceling the event, feeling it could "embolden" extremist groups.{{Cite news |date=2022-12-08 |title=LGBTQIA+ community and supporters rally in Melbourne, after pride event cancelled due to protest threat |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-12-08/glitter-nova-youth-pride-celebration-postponed-protest-threat/101751478 |access-date=2024-03-26 |work=ABC News |language=en-AU |archive-date=March 25, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240325000619/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-12-08/glitter-nova-youth-pride-celebration-postponed-protest-threat/101751478 |url-status=live }}

In April 2023, after receiving many threats online and over the phone, Alice Rebel Cafe canceled an event featuring drag queens. One person had claimed they could track the performers' home addresses via their car license plates when they arrived at the venue; another said "As they crumble, you’re smiling like a shark, predators become prey" on Telegram. In response to news of the threats and the event cancelation, the cafe received widespread support on social media.{{Cite web |date=2023-04-13 |title=Drag show cancelled after online threats |url=https://au.news.yahoo.com/drag-show-cancelled-online-threats-225600811.html |access-date=2024-03-26 |website=Yahoo News |language=en-AU |archive-date=March 13, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240313102349/https://au.news.yahoo.com/drag-show-cancelled-online-threats-225600811.html |url-status=live }}

Also in April 2023, a Monash City Council meeting was interrupted by protestors who called councillors "pedophiles" for refusing to cancel a drag queen event planned for Oakleigh Library. Groups who participated in the protest included My Place and Reignite Democracy Australia. Extra security arrived, as did the local police.{{Cite web |last=Aubrey |first=Sophie |date=2023-04-26 |title='Paedophiles': Protesters opposed to drag queen event hurl abuse at councillors |url=https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/protesters-descend-on-council-meeting-to-oppose-drag-queen-event-20230426-p5d3bo.html |access-date=2024-03-28 |website=The Age |language=en |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328165009/https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/protesters-descend-on-council-meeting-to-oppose-drag-queen-event-20230426-p5d3bo.html |url-status=live }} A week later, the council canceled the event due to fears over safety.{{Cite web |last=Aubrey |first=Sophie |date=2023-05-04 |title='Disappointing': Monash Council cancels drag queen story time event |url=https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/monash-council-cancels-drag-queen-story-time-event-20230504-p5d5jn.html |access-date=2024-03-28 |website=The Age |language=en |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328165009/https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/monash-council-cancels-drag-queen-story-time-event-20230504-p5d5jn.html |url-status=live }}

In May 2023, regional councils canceled a number of drag and LGBTQ+ events across Victoria due to threats from far-right groups. Organizers said they didn't feel they could ensure the events were safe due to the threats from far-right and fascist groups.{{Cite news |last=Kelly |first=Cait |date=2023-05-12 |title=Councils call off drag storytime and LGBTQ+ events in Victoria after far-right threats |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/may/13/councils-call-off-drag-storytime-and-lgbtq-events-in-victoria-after-far-right-threats |access-date=2024-03-28 |work=The Guardian |language=en-GB |issn=0261-3077 |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328165008/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/may/13/councils-call-off-drag-storytime-and-lgbtq-events-in-victoria-after-far-right-threats |url-status=live }} The deputy principal of Woodleigh School was also targeted. The Municipal Association of Victoria held an emergency meeting to address the rise in far-right and neo-Nazi groups targeting LGBTQ+ events, with anti-extremism experts and the police addressing mayors from the region.{{Cite news |last1=Kelly |first1=Cait |last2=Kolovos |first2=Benita |date=2023-05-16 |title=Victorian councils to hold emergency meeting on far-right targeting of drag queen storytime events |url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/may/16/drag-queen-storytime-far-right-victoria-councils-emergency-meeting-lgbtq-events |access-date=2024-03-28 |work=The Guardian |language=en-GB |issn=0261-3077 |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328165008/https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/may/16/drag-queen-storytime-far-right-victoria-councils-emergency-meeting-lgbtq-events |url-status=live }}

In February 2024, a drag story time event in Rockdale Library in southern Sydney, which was going to be broadcast by ABC, was canceled after being targeted by far-right groups and individuals.{{Cite web |last=Perry |first=Kevin |date=2024-02-07 |title=ABC cancels Drag Children's Story event amidst online backlash |url=https://tvblackbox.com.au/page/2024/02/07/abc-cancels-drag-childrens-story-event-amidst-online-backlash/ |access-date=2024-03-28 |website=TV Blackbox |archive-date=April 1, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240401090030/https://tvblackbox.com.au/page/2024/02/07/abc-cancels-drag-childrens-story-event-amidst-online-backlash/ |url-status=live }} In a statement, the network condemned the "hateful and offensive" response they had received and said they were considering how to hold the event at another location to ensure the safety of those involved.{{Cite web |last=Thomas |first=Shibu |date=2024-02-07 |title=Hate Forces ABC To Cancel Sydney Drag Story Time Event |url=https://cityhub.com.au/hate-forces-abc-to-cancel-sydney-drag-story-time-event/ |access-date=2024-03-28 |website=City Hub Sydney |language=en-US |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328170512/https://cityhub.com.au/hate-forces-abc-to-cancel-sydney-drag-story-time-event/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |title=ABC statement on Drag Queen Story Time |url=https://about.abc.net.au/statements/abc-statement-on-drag-queen-story-time/ |access-date=2024-03-28 |website=About the ABC |language=en-AU |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328165011/https://about.abc.net.au/statements/abc-statement-on-drag-queen-story-time/ |url-status=live }}

On 1 March 2023, a drag queen storytime event was held at a library in the Auckland suburb of Avondale. However, the library was forced to close due to a protest of approximately three people accusing the event of the "sexualisation of children."{{cite news |title=Auckland library closes after drag Storytime protest |url=https://www.1news.co.nz/2023/03/01/auckland-library-closes-after-drag-queen-storytime-protest/ |access-date=26 March 2024 |work=1News |publisher=TVNZ |date=1 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230403112313/https://www.1news.co.nz/2023/03/01/auckland-library-closes-after-drag-queen-storytime-protest/ |archive-date=3 April 2023|url-status=live}} In mid-March 2023, the "Queens Telling Stories" event at Christchurch's Tūranga Library was picketed by 36 protesters. Christchurch Pride chairperson Jill Stevens accused the protesters of "hate speech". 160 supporters attend the Queens reading reading event.{{cite news |last1=Burns |first1=Adam |title=Protests at drag queen storytime event sparked more support, organiser says |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/485900/protests-at-drag-queen-storytime-event-sparked-more-support-organiser-says |access-date=1 April 2024 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=14 March 2024 |archive-date=August 10, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230810044031/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/485900/protests-at-drag-queen-storytime-event-sparked-more-support-organiser-says |url-status=live }}

On 20 March 2024, a proposed drag queen storytime event at Rotorua's library was cancelled following safety concerns about misinformation and violence.{{cite news |last1=Smith |first1=Laura |title=Rotorua cancels drag queens' Rainbow Storytime for kids over 'safety concerns' |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/ldr/512228/rotorua-cancels-drag-queens-rainbow-storytime-for-kids-over-safety-concerns |access-date=26 March 2024 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=20 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240320051938/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/ldr/512228/rotorua-cancels-drag-queens-rainbow-storytime-for-kids-over-safety-concerns |archive-date=20 March 2024}} Rotorua Lakes Councillor Robert Lee and Destiny Church leader Brian Tamaki also expressed opposition to the proposed Rotorua drag storytime.{{cite news |last1=Smith |first1=Laura |title=Rotorua councillors clash over Library Rainbow Storytime event |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/ldr/512078/rotorua-councillors-clash-over-library-rainbow-storytime-event |access-date=26 March 2024 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=19 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240318195412/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/ldr/512078/rotorua-councillors-clash-over-library-rainbow-storytime-event |archive-date=18 March 2024}} On 26 March, a drag storytime event at Gisborne's library attracted opposition from members of Destiny Church, who also painted over a rainbow crossing.{{cite news |last1=O’Connor |first1=Matahi |title=Rainbow crossing in Gisborne Main Street painted white ahead of drag-queen storytime event |url=https://www.gisborneherald.co.nz/news/rainbow-crossing-in-gisbornes-main-street-painted-white-ahead-of-drag-queen-story-time-event |access-date=26 March 2024 |work=The Gisborne Herald |date=26 March 2024 |archive-date=March 26, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240326202734/https://www.gisborneherald.co.nz/news/rainbow-crossing-in-gisbornes-main-street-painted-white-ahead-of-drag-queen-story-time-event |url-status=live }} In response, LGBTQ+ counter-protesters gathered outside Gisborne's library to support the drag storytime event.{{cite news |last1=McCaull |first1=Ashleigh |title=Destiny Church, rainbow community clash over drag queen library performance |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/512674/destiny-church-rainbow-community-clash-over-drag-queen-library-performance |access-date=26 March 2024 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=26 March 2024 |archive-date=March 26, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240326032629/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/512674/destiny-church-rainbow-community-clash-over-drag-queen-library-performance |url-status=live }} Mayor of Gisborne Rehette Stoltz condemned the vandalism of the rainbow crossing, which was repainted by the Gisborne District Council. Police later arrested five individuals who attempted to vandalise the rainbow crossing a second time.{{cite news |last1=Green |first1=Kate |title=Gisborne's rainbow crossing restored after protest |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/512801/gisborne-s-rainbow-crossing-restored-after-protest |access-date=1 April 2024 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=27 March 2024 |archive-date=March 30, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240330162502/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/512801/gisborne-s-rainbow-crossing-restored-after-protest |url-status=live }} Police charged two men and a woman with graffiti vandalism in relation to the Gisborne rainbow crossing incident.{{cite news |title=Drag queen reading group Rainbow Storytime cancels nationwide tour amid ongoing protest by Destiny Church leader Brian Tamaki |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/drag-queen-reading-group-rainbow-storytime-cancels-nationwide-tour-amid-ongoing-protest-by-destiny-church-leader-brian-tamaki/OJ3U3VSF3BA2FKEFYIFMUEYJUE/ |access-date=28 April 2024 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=26 April 2024}}

Following the Gisborne protest, the Hastings District Council canceled an upcoming Erika and CoCo Flash Rainbow Story event, citing safety concerns following a large volume of "threatening and intimidating" messages.{{cite news |title=Hastings council cancels drag queens' Rainbow Storytime after Destiny Church protest |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/512740/hastings-council-cancels-drag-queens-rainbow-storytime-after-destiny-church-protest |access-date=1 April 2024 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=26 March 2024 |url-status=live |archive-date=March 30, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240330040856/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/512740/hastings-council-cancels-drag-queens-rainbow-storytime-after-destiny-church-protest }}

On 28 March 2024, a rainbow crossing in Auckland's Karangahape Road was vandalized with white paint. Police described the vandalism as a "hate crime" while Radio New Zealand linked the incident to the protest against the drag queen storytime event in Gisborne. Several New Zealand politicians including Minister of Police Mark Mitchell, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and ACT leader David Seymour denounced the vandalism of the Karangahape rainbow crossing.{{cite news |title=Police treat painting over of Auckland's K' Road rainbow crossing as hate crime |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/512928/police-treat-painting-over-of-auckland-s-k-road-rainbow-crossing-as-hate-crime |access-date=1 April 2024 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=28 March 2024 |url-status=live |archive-date=March 31, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240331161811/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/512928/police-treat-painting-over-of-auckland-s-k-road-rainbow-crossing-as-hate-crime }} On 15 April Ford O'Connor, a member of Destiny Church who is married to Tamaki's granddaughter, pleaded guilty to vandalizing the Karangahape Road rainbow crossing and was fined $16,093 to cover the repair costs. During the sentencing, Tamaki expressed support for O'Connor, saying that "he undertook a political protest against the excessive rainbow-washing that is occurring across New Zealand right now."{{cite news |last1=Plummer |first1=Benjamin |last2=Davison |first2=Isaac |last3=Williams |first3=David |title=Ford O'Connor pleads guilty, will pay $16k for vandalising K Road crossing; Brian Tamaki supports him |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/destiny-church-leader-brian-tamaki-voices-unwavering-support-for-man-accused-of-vandalising-k-road-crossing/JPPLWQNGOZDXVKNFQ52QEI2WA4/ |access-date=17 April 2024 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=15 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240415195250/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/destiny-church-leader-brian-tamaki-voices-unwavering-support-for-man-accused-of-vandalising-k-road-crossing/JPPLWQNGOZDXVKNFQ52QEI2WA4/ |archive-date=15 April 2024|url-status=live}}

In late April 2024, Rainbow Storytime NZ's founder Sunita Torrance cancelled a nationwide tour scheduled to pursue a defamation case against Destiny Church. By contrast, Destiny Church leader Tamaki welcomed the cancellation of Rainbow Storytime NZ's tours on social media.{{cite news |title=Drag queen reading group cancels nationwide tour amid protests |url=https://www.1news.co.nz/2024/04/26/drag-queen-reading-group-cancels-nationwide-tour-amid-protests/ |access-date=28 April 2024 |work=1News |publisher=TVNZ |date=26 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240428035148/https://www.1news.co.nz/2024/04/26/drag-queen-reading-group-cancels-nationwide-tour-amid-protests/ |archive-date=28 April 2024}}

Following the origin of the drag panic and the consequent restrictive legislation on the subject, various telethons have been organized on the subject, such as Drag Isn't Dangerous, which featured numerous drag queens, including contestants from RuPaul's Drag Race, as well as actors and comedians such as Margaret Cho, Leslie Jones, Ts Madison, Amy Schumer, and Charlize Theron.{{Cite magazine |first=Joey |last=Nolfi |url=https://ew.com/tv/rupauls-drag-race-winners-unite-drag-isnt-dangerous-telethon/ |date=March 20, 2023 |title='Drag Race' winners, queer icons unite for telethon against anti-drag laws |access-date=2023-05-29 |magazine=Entertainment Weekly |language=en |archive-date=March 22, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230322234805/https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-0&features=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%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=1632924450546155522&lang=en&origin=https%3A%2F%2Few.com%2Ftv%2Frupauls-drag-race-winners-unite-drag-isnt-dangerous-telethon%2F&sessionId=ecbda284514b28c7449c17b52e5ee452d1e995c9&siteScreenName=ew&theme=light&widgetsVersion=aaf4084522e3a%3A1674595607486&width=520px |url-status=live }}

• {{annotated link|Anti-gender movement}}
• {{annotated link|Anti-LGBT rhetoric}}
• {{annotated link|Censorship in the United States}}
• {{annotated link|Democratic backsliding in the United States}}
• LGBT grooming conspiracy theory
• {{annotated link|Bathroom bill}}
• 2020s anti-LGBT movement in the United States
• Drag-a-thon, Portland, Oregon

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