In a bad sign for bigots, Trump-appointed federal judge Thomas Parker has ruled that Tennessee’s recent ban on drag was “unconstitutionally vague and substantially overbroad.” One down, 25 to go!
Via Washington Post
Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee (R) signed the law in March, setting up Tennessee as the first state to explicitly ban drag performances in public spaces. The measure aimed to criminalize what it called “adult cabaret entertainment” by punishing first-time offenders with misdemeanors and repeat offenders with felony charges. Under the law, people convicted of multiple offenses could face prison sentences of up to six years. Parker blocked the law hours before it was set to take effect on April 1, delaying its start date so he could consider whether the ban was constitutional.
The mood was jubilant at legendary drag venue Play in Nashville, and our own reigning queen Sasha Colby was on hand to make the night even more memorable. They posted:
The TN Drag ban was just officially overturned!
At like midnight the day before @midsouthpride in Memphis & @franklinpridetn !
One of our owners @dftaylor98’s testimony was a part of the court’s decision! We are so proud & so happy! Happy Pride Nashville! Happy Pride TN!
And while @sashacolby the WINNER of @rupaulsdragrace is here of all nights! 🎉
Small-town pride events throughout Tennessee were not sure if they could happen this year, so the atmosphere was electric. Franklin Pride posted pictures of the celebratory mood:
Happy Pride, everyone!
Image: Pexels / Rosemary Ketchum
