Orlando Mexico Consulate changes drag story time to ‘adults only,’ condemns ‘grooming’
ORLANDO, Fla. (FLV) – An “all ages” Drag Story Time event was changed to “adults only” according to the Mexican Consulate, which had originally planned to host the event for kids July 29.
The originally scheduled event was set to include a “family friendly afternoon of Drag, stories, activities and snacks at Consulmex Orlando,” according to the event website.
However, the event has since been “postponed.” The consulate told Florida’s Voice they notified the organizers that they will not be able to provide them a room due to other activities the same day.
Additionally, they have agreed to provide the room at a later date with the consulate’s sole restriction being that “only adults are allowed access.”
The consulate went on to say they condemn “grooming.”
“The Consulate of Mexico, on behalf of the Government of Mexico declares itself irrefutably and totally against acts termed ‘grooming’ that violate the integrity and mental health of minors,” the consulate said in a statement.
Furthermore, the consulate said they are a “safe zone” for the LGBTQ+ Community.
The Consulate said given the “series of unfounded messages on social media where the Consulate is being targeted,” they “read with sadness and regret the agressive reaction being displayed against the LGBTQ+ community in Florida.”
The event website said they are being funded by the One Pulse Foundation and in conjunction with the Rose Dynasty Foundation, HOPE CommUnity Center, Consulmex Orlando and Ventanilla de Inclusion.
“Join us for another afternoon of inclusive stories and fun in English and Spanish as we bring Drag Story Time back to Consulmex Orlando!” the event description said.
The event is hosted by drag queen Momma Rose, who has previously spoke in favor of children to be allowed to attend “adult live performances” during the past legislative session.
Momma Rose previously was set to host “Drag & Donuts” at an Orlando high school, but the event was cancelled following questions from the state on whether the event was age-appropriate.
Gays Against Groomers, a nonprofit organization that directly opposes the “sexualization and indoctrination of children,” condemned the event online.
“We understand that the right thing to do isn’t necessarily popular, but we will not stand by silently while the line between adult and child entertainment is blurred,” the post said.
It has come to our attention that there is a "family friendly" Drag Story Time event being held at the Consulmex Orlando, FL. Why the Mexican consulate? Because if this event were held anywhere else in Florida it would be in violation of statute 827.11: exposing children to an… pic.twitter.com/qt3TFudYaW
— Gays Against Groomers Florida (@GAG_Florida) July 19, 2023
In May, DeSantis signed a bill into law to penalize businesses and people who admit children into “adult live performances.”
The move comes after venues in Florida allowed children to attend drag shows with “sexual” content.
Rep. Randy Fine, R-Melbourne Beach, carried the legislation and spoke out against “adult live performances.”
Fine reiterated, like he did during the floor debates, that “there is evil in this world and we are fighting it here today.”
“The fight that we have had here in Florida is about the fundamental nature of childhood itself,” Fine said.
Fine reiterated, like he did during the floor debates, that “there is evil in this world and we are fighting it here today.”
