Late last Friday night, a federal judge in Memphis ruled that Tennessee’s recent ban against drag shows in public was unconstitutional.
U.S. District Judge Thomas Parker ruled against the legislation after closing arguments were made in regards to a lawsuit filed against the state by a Memphis-based theater company – Friends of George’s – that is known for fundraising for LGBTQ organizations by putting on shows that often include drag performances.
Friends of George’s claimed that the law “seeks to oppress queer culture statewide.”
The newly passed Adult Entertainment Act would ban “male and female impersonators” from performing in public spaces where children may be present, thereby protecting them from “adult-oriented performances that are harmful to minors.” First time offenders could have been charged with a misdemeanor; subsequent charges could result in felony charges.
