Recent news has raised a spectrum of emotions in me, among them anger, sadness, and overall determination to open people’s eyes to the never-ending hate that the LGBTQIA+ community has been facing for years. In the past few months, a handful of lawmakers have been writing and enacting bills and laws restricting transgender and drag performers’ rights.

   According to Tennessee General Assembly, Senate Bill Three enacted by the general assembly of the state of Tennessee, it is an offense for a person to engage in “adult cabaret” on public property or in a location where the performance could be viewed by a minor (capitol.tn.gov). These recent anti-drag queen bills are an example of blatant discrimination in our society.

   According to National Public Radio (NPR), now that drag performances are labeled as a form of “adult cabaret performance” instead of entertainment or general performances, they are deemed sexual or unsafe for children to witness under the law. The bill “…bans [drag shows] from occurring within 1,000 feet of schools, public parks, or places of worship” (npr.org). This legislation is based on unfounded prejudices against the LGBTQIA+ community, ignoring the valuable contribution drag queens make to our culture and the entertainment industry.

   Although some drag shows may have sexual elements and themes, the majority are intended to be child-friendly and do not involve any sexual content. According to Salon, at competitive drag show competitions, drag performers often use their art to entertain and inspire audiences of all ages, and their shows can include music, dancing, comedy, and other forms of entertainment (salon.com). While there may be some adult-themed drag performances, it is important to recognize that these are the exception rather than the norm, and are labeled as such.

   Also looped in with the anti-drag enactments, according to the Human Rights Campaign, these bills against transgender peoples aim to restrict access to gender-affirming healthcare, participation in sports, and even being able to use the restrooms and locker rooms with which they identify (hrc.org). Such bills violate the basic human rights of transgender individuals and can have severe consequences for their mental and physical health. Moreover, these laws fuel the already existing discrimination and violence against transgender people, contributing to a culture of intolerance and hate. It is crucial for everyone to recognize the humanity of all individuals, regardless of their gender or sexual identity, and work towards creating a more inclusive and acceptable society.

   How can a fellow human actively harm an entire community’s livelihood for the sake of their personal agenda? The antipathy expressed by these individuals is beyond baffling. Mind your own business and let people be who they want to be.