I want to address the concerns being raised about the Drag Queen Christmas show. I understand that some residents feel the performance conflicts with their personal values, and I respect their right to hold and express those beliefs. However, it is important to clarify that the show is not intended as an attack on Christianity or the Christmas season. It is a theatrical parody and musical performance, similar to other humorous holiday productions that play with tradition for entertainment. Not all shows will appeal to everyone, and that’s alright — we all choose what aligns with our own values.

Our city hosts many different types of holiday traditions: sacred services, living nativity displays, classical concerts, and yes — secular performances. A healthy community can say, “Some events are for me, and some are for others,” without assuming harm or disrespect.

Regarding the Attorney General’s letter: the argument relies on the assumption that drag is inherently sexual or obscene, and that is not accurate. Drag is a recognized form of expressive performance — involving costume, character, parody, and music. The show does not meet the legal standard for obscenity under the Miller test, which is very specific and requires sexual conduct. This is not that.

I understand that some individuals may find the performance distasteful, and that is a valid personal reaction. But it is not the role of the city government to restrict art or expression based on one group’s moral or religious views. Doing so would set a precedent that could be used to restrict many other forms of speech, performance, or worship in the future.

The Saenger belongs to the whole city — not to any single viewpoint — and the best way to honor that is to allow diverse programming, while allowing individuals and families to decide what aligns with their own values.