The decision by Wollongong City Library to host a drag queen for a family friendly, inclusive storytime event has divided parts of the community but event organisers won’t back down.
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Drag Storytime with Miss Roxee (aka Adam Larkham) this Saturday is promoted to have stories, singing and craft though has drawn much criticism via social media with many people labelling it as “inappropriate” for children.
Others have gone so far as to say having the event hosted by a drag queen will be “sexualising children” and have accused the library of using taxpayer’s money to “spread propaganda”.
Let's chill out and leave gender stereotypes behind.
- Wollongong Lord Mayor Gordon Bradbery
Some angry residents have written to the library’s Facebook event calling it to be scrapped. But organisers are standing strong.
“We do not accept or tolerate hateful speech or malicious remarks designed to hurt or personally attack people,” wrote a spokesperson for the library on the event’s Facebook page.
“We support and stand by our event and the Library as being a safe and inclusive space for our community.”
Meantime a council spokeswoman said they anticipate the event to be “well-attended” but reiterated it only runs from 10am to 11am if people wish to attend around that.
“It’s part of our commitment to highlight our libraries as open, safe and welcoming spaces by offering a range of events and activities for everyone,” she said.
Wollongong Lord Mayor Gordon Bradbery also jumped onto social media to voice his support, likening Miss Roxee to the much loved Dame Edna Everage or his “Scottish Tartan clad muscular mate”.
“Come on let's chill out and leave gender stereotypes behind,” Cr Bradbery said.
Hundreds of others have also applauded organisers for creating a safe and inclusive event.
“If you don't want your kids to go, don't take them,” wrote Oliver Levi-Malouf.
“It’s amusing reading how reactive and scared people are,” posted Ben Instalife. “I wouldn’t let my kids near some of these straight people.”
“Teaching diversity, humanitarianism and compassion,” said Kerry Baylor. “Well done.”
Drag Storytime was organised as part of the Queer Arts Festival which runs until Sunday.
Co-curator Diane Zaharis said she knew parts of the community would oppose the cause, but was incredibly happy with the amount of support.
“We also really appreciate Wollongong City Libraries for their support of standing with our community,” Ms Zaharis said.
“There’s a lot of people who have seen that who really appreciate that our local council is with us.”