A drag queen story event at Holywood Arches Library was deemed inappropriate for children by Minister Gordon Lyons. The event, organized by Eastside Arts Festival and not by Libraries NI, unintentionally compromised the public perception of libraries as inclusive spaces. Concerns raised by local parents led to protests outside the library, with police in attendance due to reports of a small demonstration. Two individuals were escorted from the venue to maintain order, with no offenses reported during the incident.
The event, hosted by Eastside Partnership, took place in Holywood Arches Library and featured two drag queens reading stories to children.
The minister said: "This event was not appropriate for children."
Mr Lyons said the event didn't fall within Libraries NI's policy. "This event should not have taken place and it has compromised the perception of our public libraries as a welcoming and inclusive space for all."
The PSNI confirmed they attended the event after a report of a "small demonstration" and two people were escorted from the building to ensure there would be "no breach of the peace."
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