Performers, UF students react to anti-drag legislation in Florida House

The Florida House of Representatives may soon ask Gov. Ron DeSantis to sign a bill that prevents children from being in attendance at adult live performances that some say target drag shows.

Though Senate Bill 1438, called the "Protection of Children" bill, doesn't single out any group of individuals, members of the LGBTQ+ community say it follows the same steps seen in other states that crack down on performances that directly affect them.

Last week, SB 1438 passed with a 28-12 vote inching one step closer to preventing minors from attending events that some may consider sexual, or lewd by depicting nudity or the exposure of prosthetics or imitation of breasts. If passed, the legislation could impact Alachua County more than neighboring counties, as Gainesville often hosts a number of drag performances throughout the year.

“[These politicians] don’t come and see how much fun we have and how real [drag shows are],” said drag performer Rachel Boheme.

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The time to be LGBTQ+ is becoming more and more controversial as anti-drag bills are beginning to sweep the nation. Last month, Tennessee passed a law that made prohibited drag shows with children present.

Boheme, wearing a purple sequin gown and matching-colored wig that reached just below her shoulders, expressed her grievances about the legislation as she prepared for her performance at the University Club, located at 18 E University Ave. in Gainesville.

“It is not about anything other than us just showcasing our art," the 31-year-old said.

Her colleague, Emma Gration, was also taken back after learning about recent attacks on establishments that promoted such events, including a bar that lost its liquor license for hosting a Christmas-themed drag show.

“My immediate reaction was obviously in a state of disbelief,” she said, adding that drag has been an outlet of expression. “My mind raced to think that my venues would be hit by this silly legislation.

“Drag expresses the feelings the [gay community] has endured. It’s a way for queer people to celebrate themselves through this art form ... Drag, to me, has saved my life."

Other voices

Caitlyn Schiffer, a 19-year-old journalism student at the University of Florida, attended Gration and Boheme's recent performance while filming a feature on their drag queen competition. It was her first time attending a drag event.

“There are such prevalent issues occurring in America right now,” she said, “and these lawmakers are choosing to crack down on topics that affect their religious beliefs and have  nothing to do with the safety of the public.”

Schiffer said that the barring of such events is unfortunate given the joy it brings to so many. For those who have issues with the shows, she proposed a more simple solution: "Don't go to one."

Loren Miranda, 20, also in attendance, shared her thoughts on the issue, too.

“Drag isn’t perverted or overly sexual,” the sophomore journalism major said. “The fact that trans and LGBT individuals are the only ones impacted by these bills isn’t a coincidence.”

Like Schiffer, University Club was also the first drag venue Miranda attended. She has made efforts to learn and support the art form ever since.

“It inspired me to continue supporting drag talent in my own hometown of Tampa at local gay clubs and bars there,” she said. “Even if it’s just being there cheering them on.”

Miranda described the feelings she is overcome with when watching members of the queer community show off their talents through song, dance, hair and makeup.

“Watching a drag show and seeing someone show the most true and honest version of themselves is life-changing,” she said.

“Drag means the freedom to express yourself in any way possible, even if it isn’t pleasing to everyone or expected from others.”

This article originally appeared on The Gainesville Sun: 'Anti-drag' legislation draws reaction from UF students, performers