In April 2022, Oklahoma State University (OSU) in Stillwater, Oklahoma, hosted an event called Drag Queen Story Hour, intended for children ages 2 to 10. The event was held as part of LGBTQ+ Pride celebrations and attracted attention from both supporters and critics.
Event description
At the event, two drag queen performers, Ammi Rett and Olivia Laikan, read books aimed at promoting inclusivity and acceptance. Among the books featured were Michael Hall’s Red: A Crayon’s Story and Miranda Paul’s Speak Up. The event also included various activities, such as making rainbow crafts and handing out craft kits.
Public reaction
The event generated widespread public interest. Some OSU students expressed support for the event, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and diversity. Others, however, expressed concern that such an event might be inappropriate for younger children.
University response
After the event attracted media attention, OSU administrators removed the age recommendations from the event’s promotional materials. University officials explained that the initial information was incorrect and did not reflect reality.
Conclusion
The Drag Queen Story Hour event at OSU has become a topic of public debate, raising questions about the limits of inclusivity and what events are appropriate for young children. This case also highlights the importance of transparency and accuracy in presenting information about events organized by educational institutions.