Drag story hours continue to be targets amid conservative backlash
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/drag-story-hours-continue-to-be-targets-amid-conservative-backlash/ar-BB1kwc9m?ocid=windirect&cvid=60d1fe8da67240efb733cee19540dbf0&ei=60
ABC News (25 March 2024)
Several drag queen story hours across the country have been faced with bomb threats, backlash and cancellations. On Saturday morning, Lancaster Public Library in Pennsylvania became the most recent story hour impacted by such threats.
A Lancaster City Police K-9 and Lancaster County Sheriff Deputy K-9 alerted handlers to a suspicious package inside the Lancaster Public Library during a preplanned sweep ahead of a drag story hour. Bomb threats had also been made via email with claims of explosive devices planted in the surrounding area.
After an investigation by the Pennsylvania State Police bomb squad, the scene was cleared and no explosive devices were found.
"Not only do bomb threats disrupt the peace and safety of our community, they waste valuable public resources," said Lancaster Police Chief Richard Mendez. "Bomb threats will not be tolerated, and we are committed to identifying and prosecuting those responsible."
"They are turning something that is so innocent into something that it's not, this is a family-friendly, fun time where we all get together and enjoy each other's company," Tiffany Shirley, president of Lancaster Pride told FOX43. She argues that opponents are misconstruing the event's goal. "There's no agenda, there is nothing indoctrinating or sexualizing in this event."