Across Ohio, people gather at Pride events, community fundraisers, and local performances to celebrate creativity, identity, and belonging. Now, House Bill 249 threatens to disrupt those spaces—placing broad and unclear restrictions on performances that many Ohioans see as art, culture, and community.

HB 249 has already passed the Ohio House and is now headed to the Ohio Senate. While supporters say the bill is meant to protect children from explicit content, existing Ohio laws already prohibit exposing minors to obscene material. 

Opponents, including performers and advocacy organizations, warn that the bill’s language could go far beyond its stated intent. By redefining what counts as “adult cabaret” and expanding indecency laws, HB 249 may discourage or effectively eliminate drag performances at public events like Pride festivals, charity shows, and brunches—spaces that have long brought communities together and raised funds for important causes.

This isn’t just about one type of performance. It’s about whether Ohio remains a place where freedom of expression is respected, where artists are not singled out, and where laws are clear, fair, and applied equally.

Ohioans deserve thoughtful policymaking that unites communities, not legislation that risks dividing them.

We call on the Ohio Senate—and specifically Senate President Matt Huffman and members of the Ohio Senate—to reject HB 249 or amend it to ensure it does not unfairly target LGBTQ+ individuals or restrict lawful artistic expression.

Ohio can uphold both family values and fundamental freedoms. This bill, as written, does not strike that balance. Sign this petition to stand for fairness, clarity, and the freedom to express who we are.