Petition: Drag queen story time would promote 'sexual deviancy'

Amanda McElfresh | The Daily Advertiser

Show Caption Hide Caption Residents Show Support for Library Story Time Residents Show Support for Library Story Time

Approximately 780 people have signed an online petition against the Lafayette Public Library’s planned Drag Queen Story Time.

The petition is being led by Citizens for a New Louisiana. It’s a grassroots group that has raised concerns in recent years about local taxes for public schools and libraries, among other issues.

“While the incessant call for one defeated tax election after another has been disheartening, the use of taxpayer funds to promote sexual deviancy to three-year-olds was and still is shocking,” the petition reads.

The petition is addressed to the library and the Lafayette City-Parish Council.

“I am quite eager to hear your position and to know what actions you plan to take,” the petition continues.

The event is scheduled for 2 p.m. Oct. 6 at the main library in downtown Lafayette. Members of the Delta Lambda Phi fraternity will dress in drag and read stories to children ages 3 to 6. It will be the first event of its kind in Lafayette.

RELATED: Dozens of Lafayette residents speak in support of Drag Queen Story Time

Since the announcement, the event has sparked controversy throughout Lafayette. Opponents have said it is inappropriate for young children and inconsistent with traditional values. Supporters have said it will promote acceptance, inclusion and diversity.

Lafayette Mayor-President Joel Robideaux issued a statement last week raising questions about the program and indicating he would seek to cancel or move the event.

Robideaux’s sole appointment to the library board of control, Joseph Gordon-Wiltz, resigned Monday.

The council appoints the other seven board members.

“We’ve heard criticism and support,” said Library Director Teresa Elberson. “A lot of the criticism is not from this area. It’s the same case with the support. We are getting emails, letters and comments from other places, and a lot of that is support. We’re not bringing it to anybody’s attention. We are not actively asking people what they think. Our decision is already made.”

Elberson said details of the program, including books and activities, are still being finalized. The timing of those decisions is not unusual for new events, she said.