The Madison Heights City Council has voted to cancel a drag queen story time at its annual pride celebration.
The council voted 4-3 at a Monday meeting to cancel the story time, according to a statement from member Quinn Wright. The decision was less than a week before the city’s annual Arts & Pride picnic scheduled this Sunday.
The Detroit News has reached out to Mayor Corey Haines for the vote reason.
Drag performer Jadein Black, who was hired for the event, called the decision “a misunderstanding” by people who have never attended one of their story times. Black said in a news release that drag has long been part of LGBTQ+ culture and “teaching children about acceptance should never be controversial.”
“Despite concerns raised by opponents, supporters pointed out a fact often lost in these discussions: drag performers are entertainers, artists, storytellers, and community members — not strippers,” Black said in the release. “Equating drag with adult entertainment ignores the reality of what family-friendly drag events actually look like.”
Black has added a story time to a drag brunch Saturday at Sidetrack Bar and Grille, the performer told The News.
In his statement, Wright said he was disappointed with the council’s decision. He said he believes council “crossed a line into regulating expression.” But Wright also said he respected the process that produced the decision.
“Public service requires thoughtful discussion, differing perspectives, and ultimately accepting the outcome of the democratic process, even when we disagree,” Wright said. “As the City Council representative to the Human Relations and Equity Commission, I take great pride in helping ensure that all residents of our community feel represented, welcomed, and valued. That commitment remains unchanged.”
mbryan@detroitnews.com
This article originally appeared on The Detroit News: Madison Heights cancels drag story time at annual Pride event
Reporting by Max Bryan, The Detroit News / The Detroit News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Max Bryan, The Detroit News | USA TODAY Network
