Governor DeSantis (R-FL) recently revved up efforts to protect children ahead of last year's election where he won by a landslide. Now, local LGBTQ+ and drag groups are treading carefully in fear of being shut down by the governor.
Pridefest '23 was intended to be hosted in Treasure Coast this weekend with of a "pride parade." Pride Alliance of the Treasure Coast released a statement blaming the "political climate," for being, "very concerned for our community."
Pride Alliance seemed dismayed to decide that their pride parade will now have to be a 21 and older event. "It is with a heavy heart that Pride Alliance of Treasure Coast has to announce that this weekend's Pridefest will now have to be a 21 and older event."
The group seems to not have canceled another event for children, however, stating they will make further comments about the "family-friendly Party in the Park where our youth can celebrate who they are as well!" The event for children that seems to still be planned will be hosted along with the Sanctuary of the Treasure Coast.
Liberal commentators however did not take this news well. State Rep. Anna Eskamani (D) tweeted, "This is was the point many of us were making -- when you push BROAD legislation it will lead to censorship, especially when you have local governments fearful of being punished."
Alejandra Caraballo called the new age restriction a, "canceled," event and characterized it as banning pride.
This is was the point many of us were making -- when you push BROAD legislation it will lead to censorship, especially when you have local governments fearful of being punished. https://t.co/quK8SXjQXg
— Rep. Anna V. Eskamani 🔨 (@AnnaForFlorida) April 20, 2023
Actions such as these are nothing new for Gov. DeSantis who has previously taken action against private companies that have endangered children, including revoking the liquor licenses of Miami bars who has been suspected of exposing minors to drag shows.
