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Federal Judge Rules Tennessee Law, banning Drag Performances Unconstitutional
A newly-signed law in March 2021 made Tennessee the first state to outlaw public drag performances. Governor Bill Lee’s law prevents performances containing “sexual content” or “sexual innuendo” at local government events, such as libraries and schools. However, a federal judge declared the law “unconstitutionally vague and substantially overbroad” on Friday, resulting in its cancellation. The judge determined the legislation was excessively extensive and might forbid many non-sexually suggestive shows.
Almost immediately after being signed into law, Tennessee’s law faced legal challenges. Drag performers and LGBTQ+ advocacy groups filed multiple lawsuits claiming the law infringed on their right to free speech and expression under the First Amendment. The plaintiffs were victorious in a recent federal court ruling, which is a significant triumph for supporters of the drag performer community and LGBTQ+ rights.
The fight for progress and change in the face of discrimination and injustice is far from over. Recently, a landmark ruling gave hope to those affected by Tennessee’s attempt to restrict drag performances in public spaces and events. Many perceived the law as directly attacking the LGBTQ+ community’s freedom to express themselves. Despite this positive development, it cannot be understated how impactful the law was on drag performers and the LGBTQ+ community, making it imperative for advocates to push for equal rights and protections. The ruling conveys that discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community will not be tolerated.
In March 2021, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee approved a law to curtail drag shows in public places or around youngsters. Adult cabaret activities were made illegal under the legislation, with a $50 fine and a six-month jail sentence for those found guilty as first-time offenders. However, U.S. District Judge Thomas Parker, nominated by former President Trump, has now ruled the measures unconstitutional, ruling in favor of the First Amendment rights of drag entertainers. The decision is a critical victory for LGBTQ+ supporters and performers working to overturn biased legislation for an extended period.
The ruling will affect other states with similar laws just as much as Tennessee. The law was initially implemented in Tennessee, but in recent years several states have attempted to adopt similar legislation. This ruling could have far-reaching consequences and question these laws’ validity. It’s also a warning that legislation discriminating against LGBTQ+ people is unconstitutional and won’t be accepted.
In the ongoing battle for LGBTQ+ rights and equality, a recent triumph in Tennessee must not overshadow the discriminatory laws and policies in other states. Furthermore, the harsh realities of discrimination and violence remain a staple of the LGBTQ+ experience. It is vital that the struggle for all individuals’ rights, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, persists. Tennessee’s recent favorable judgment is progress, but the labor to guarantee everyone is treated with dignity and respect is far from finished.
Citation
Tennessee drag ban is unconstitutional, federal judge rules. (n.d.) , from www.washingtonpost.com
Tennessee Drag Law Struck Down by Federal Judge. (n.d.) , from www.nationalreview.com
Judge Finds Tennessee Law Aimed at Restricting Drag …. (n.d.) , from www.nytimes.com
Tennessee law restricting drag shows unconstitutional …. (n.d.) , from www.cbc.ca
Tennessee law restricting drag performances ruled …. (n.d.) , from www.news10.com
Federal judge rules Tennessee’s anti-drag law ‘ …. (n.d.) , from www.pbs.org
Judge Finds Tennessee Law Aimed at Restricting Drag …. (n.d.) , from www.nytimes.com
Tennessee anti-drag show law deemed ‘unconstitutional’ …. (n.d.) , from www.cnn.com
Federal judge rules Tennessee drag law unconstitutional. (n.d.) , from www.politico.com
Originally published at https://original.newsbreak.com.
