1. United States
2. Ohio
3. Letter

House bill 249 is a hateful bigoted attempt to harm the Ohio LGBTQIA+ community. While it is being presented as a way to protect children and family values, it is actually anti-family in every way. Drag has been part of performance art since, at least the Elizabethan era, and drag is an integral part of the LGBTQIA+ community today. Drag performers not only entertain their community, they champion causes that are important to all Ohioans—the notable Nina West, alone, has raised significant funds for needy people in our state. This bill is mean-spirited and designed to force human beings to deny a valid art form as a way to silence the LGBTQIA+ community. Legislation like this results in empowered bigots, suicidal young people, and harm to the community. I urge you to vote no in the legislature, and if it happens to make it to the governor’s desk, to veto it without delay. Thank you.