Protestors Gather Against HB 2186 Known As 'Drag Queen Ban'

Many call this bill a ‘drag queen ban’ as HB 2186 passes through the committee. The bill would make it illegal for adult cabaret performances to occur in public places or places where minors could be present.

"I am angry. I am livid, and I am hurt," said a protestor this morning.  

The Oklahoma Capitol hallways were packed as those fighting against the house bill crowded in, HB 2186 would criminalize drag performances.

"We have three levels out in public spaces, minors have to be present, and then it has to be harmful to minors," said Representative West. 

"Representative West, why? We have real problems," said Oliver, a protestor. "Things are getting massively underfunded, and you are getting worried about this."

This is only the first step. Inside the bill, it also adds that violators engaging in adult cabaret performances could go to jail for two years and be fined up to 20 thousand dollars.

“When you are seeing queer children light up a decade before you ever got to be, it's a wonderful thing to see," said Oliver. 

This bill passed the committee, it will now be heard on the house floor.