TEXAS — On Friday, the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents decided to ban drag shows from all 11 of its university campuses. The new ban has ignited a discussion regarding its potential infringement on First Amendment rights.
The resolution says that “universities should foster a sense of community,” but that drag shows do not align with the university’s mission and core values.
The ban argues that drag performances could create a hostile environment for women, going against the school’s anti-discrimination policies saying, “These events often involve unwelcome and objectively offensive conduct based on sex for many members of the respective communities of the universities, particularly when they involve the mockery or objectification of women.”
Friday afternoon’s decision will impact an annual drag show called “Draggieland” that was scheduled for March 27 at the College Station campus. Other campuses, including Texas A&M University Corpus Christi and East Texas A&M University, have also hosted drag shows in the past.
The Queer Empowerment Council at Texas A&M, organizers of Draggieland, expressed disappointment in a statement.
“QEC firmly believes that the Board of Regents’ decision undermines these values, which are vital to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all students. The cancellation follows the loss of our Pride Center due to the implications of SB 17, making it all the more crucial for events like Draggieland to continue,” said organizers.
The council also said while they look for alternative venue locations and dates, refunds for ticket-holders will start Monday.
University administrators have publicly criticized drag shows before. In 2023, the West Texas A&M University President received backlash from students after cancelling a student drag show, saying it degrades women.
The students argued the decision violated both their First Amendment rights and a state law that protects student organizations’ right to use university facilities regardless of their views.
Draggieland sells out every year and is for adults only (18+). The university cut funding for the event in 2022.
