A federal judge has temporarily blocked the Texas A&M University System from enforcing a ban on drag performances on its campuses, allowing an annual drag performance called “Draggieland” to proceed as scheduled. The ban was implemented by the Texas A&M Board of Regents citing concerns about violating President Trump’s executive order against “gender ideology.” The LGBTQ student group, Texas A&M Queer Empowerment Council, sued the university, arguing that the ban violated the First Amendment. The judge ruled in favor of the students, stating that the ban violated the constitutional obligation to allow different viewpoints on campus.
The Queer Empowerment Council expressed joy over the decision and plans to continue with the performance. Texas A&M University System is reviewing its options following the judge’s ruling. This decision is seen as a victory against policies that seek to restrict drag performances, as seen in previous legal battles in Texas, Montana, and Tennessee.
The Board of Regents argued that drag performances could create a hostile environment for women on campus. However, the judge found that there was no evidence to support this claim and that the performances are a form of protected art expressing LGBTQ+ support. The judge emphasized that the performers are actors engaging in theater, not individuals seeking to change their biological sex.
Ultimately, the judge concluded that banning the performance because it offends some members of the campus community goes against the principles of the First Amendment. The ruling highlights the importance of allowing diverse viewpoints and expressions on university campuses.
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