A North Reading selectman has faced backlash for suggesting drag performers in the upcoming Pride Ride undergo criminal background checks and bear the cost of their police details. This proposal during a board meeting sparked outrage from other members, who viewed it as discriminatory towards the LGBTQ+ community. Highlights of the heated exchange included remarks about the appropriateness of drag in a family-friendly public event and accusations of targeting a specific group. The controversy reflects wider societal tensions regarding LGBTQ+ representation in public spaces and the ethics of singling out performers for such scrutiny.
This event is in a public space marketed as a family-friendly event. This event is going to have drag queens, which may be inappropriate for public land.
This is embraced by the town. The Select Board read a proclamation at the beginning of the meeting, stating that the town supports the LGBTQ community.
You're singling this group of people out. You're stereotyping them.
You're trying to make it a hate thing. It's not.
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