The ACLU of Texas is suing to challenge Senate Bill 12, which seeks to ban drag performances in public venues, arguing that it violates rights and stifles artistic expression.
Trying to Halt the Enforcement of Senate Bill 12
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Texas has taken legal action by filing a lawsuit against the Texas Attorney General and other defendants to halt the enforcement of Senate Bill 12, which is scheduled to come into effect on September 1.
The Bill Seeks to Prohibit Drag Shows
This bill seeks to prohibit drag performances in most public venues, a move that the ACLU contends violates both the First and Fourteenth Amendments.
Threat to Artistic Freedom
The implications extend beyond the world of entertainment, posing a threat to individuals’ artistic freedom and livelihoods.
Criminal Penalties for Performances
The bill, if implemented, could impose criminal penalties, including potential jail time, and targets performances perceived as “sexual” in nature.
Impacts a Variety of Events
According to the ACLU, Senate Bill 12 has the potential to impact a wide spectrum of constitutionally safeguarded performances.
These could range from professional cheerleading routines to touring Broadway plays and events like karaoke nights and drag shows.
Opens Doors to Censorship
The organization’s stance is that the bill’s wording opens the door to censorship of artistic expressions and freedom of speech, which are vital components of a democratic society.
Prominent Names Are Represented
The plaintiffs represented in this lawsuit include prominent names within the LGBTQ+ community, such as The Woodlands Pride and Abilene Pride Alliance.
Trying to Promote Diversity and Inclusion
These nonprofit organizations are known for their commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusivity.
Drag Artist Joins Fight
Additionally, drag artist Brigitte Bandit, along with drag production and entertainment companies that have already suffered the consequences of the ban, have joined the legal action as plaintiffs.
An Infringement of Individual Rights
The ACLU of Texas argues that Senate Bill 12 carries implications that go beyond merely limiting artistic performances.
This lawsuit responds to the organization’s significant infringement on individual rights.
Will ‘Chill’ Free Expression in Texas
ACLU attorney Brian Klosterboer states, “The Texas Drag Ban is stunningly broad in scope and will chill entire genres of free expression in our state.”
The lawsuit seeks to address the broader context of this legislation and its potential impact on civil liberties.
‘Continue to Come Together in Our Truth’
The drag artist Brigitte Bandit emphasizes the community’s united front against the ban, stating, “We must reject their attempts to divide us and continue to come together in our truth and power to support each other as Texans should.”
Misuse of Political Attention
Bandit also raises concerns about the misuse of political attention, urging state leaders to focus on pressing issues rather than indulging in what she considers to be political distractions.
Role of Government Regulating Performances
The legal action against Senate Bill 12 underscores the ongoing debate surrounding artistic freedom, the right to free expression, and the role of legislation in regulating public performances.
Preserving Democracy
As the ACLU of Texas takes the lead in this lawsuit, it emphasizes the importance of preserving the foundational principles of democracy and safeguarding individual rights within the state.
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The post “Drag Shows Are Now Prohibited” – Advocacy Group Challenges Senate Bill, Arguing That It Violates the First and Fourteenth Amendments first appeared on Fistful of Dollars.
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