Political Quotes

“I hear the words from my colleague from Maine, but I will note a few instances of what we are seeing at the Smithsonian because I believe that to be incorrect. Drag events at Smithsonian Institution Museums include: June 22, the Neurodiverse Drag Story Hour; June 23, 2023, Native Pride Extravaganza, the American Indian Museum; June 3, 2023, Drag Story Hour; June 4, 2022, Pride Family Day with two lip-syncing drag shows; June 2021, Virtual Drag Queen Art Bingo; June 2021, Virtual Drag Queen Story Time; and June 2020, Drag Queen Story Time. These are not appropriate things to be hosting in taxpayer-funded buildings, using taxpayer resources targeted at children. These are adult events, and they should be kept away from children. I strongly support the amendment. Children should not be exposed to adult cabaret performances. In what world, Madam Chair, is that okay? They receive Federal funding to ensure their buildings are maintained and the staff are paid. I do not believe it is appropriate for staff to be paid to expose children to inappropriate material. I do not believe it is appropriate for Federal buildings to be used. I do not believe it is appropriate for Federal agencies, such as the Smithsonian Institution to promote drag shows on their official channels. Government funding should not be used to expose children to inappropriate material. Madam Chair, I reserve the balance of my time.”