Federal court dismisses lawsuit over Tennessee drag show law, a win for Republicans
**Tennessee Court Dismisses Lawsuit Challenging Drag Show Restrictions**
**By: Boston Post News Network**
In a recent development, a federal appeals court in Tennessee made a ruling that dismissed a lawsuit brought by an LGBTQ group challenging a state law that restricts drag shows deemed “harmful to minors.” The lawsuit was filed by Friends of George’s, a theater located in Memphis that specializes in “drag-centric performances.” They argued that the law would negatively impact their business as they do not have age restrictions for their shows.
The 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ultimately ruled that Friends of George’s did not have legal standing to sue over the law, as their shows were found not to be “harmful to minors.” This decision overturned a previous ruling by a lower court that had temporarily blocked the enforcement of the law in Shelby County, citing it as unconstitutional and prone to discriminatory enforcement.
The law in question, which was passed with the support of Republican Governor Bill Lee, defines “harmful to minors” as shows lacking “serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value for a reasonable 17-year-old minor.” State Representative Aftyn Behn, a Democrat, criticized the ruling as an attack on the LGBTQ+ community, stating that it spreads fear and division instead of genuinely protecting children.
Despite the court’s decision, Friends of George’s remains committed to fighting against what they view as a discriminatory law. They plan to continue their legal battle while preparing for their upcoming theatrical production, which will now be limited to audiences aged 18 and over to comply with the ban.
Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti defended the law as constitutionally sound, emphasizing the state’s respect for free expression while also asserting its right to prohibit the exhibition of obscene material to children.
As this legal saga continues to unfold, the LGBTQ+ community in Tennessee finds itself in a state of uncertainty regarding the enforcement and impact of the drag show restrictions. The debate over personal freedoms, artistic expression, and protection of minors rages on, highlighting the complex interplay between individual rights and societal values.
Stay tuned to Boston Post News for further updates on this ongoing legal battle and its implications for the LGBTQ+ community in Tennessee.
