This year, a sweeping trend of dangerous, anti-LGBTQIA+ legislation has rapidly passed into law nationwide. One is the bigoted, anti-drag bill, which infringes on free speech and attempts to censor and criminalize drag and non-conforming gender expression.

This bigoted anti-drag law, approved by Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, was originally set to take effect on April 1, until Friends of George’s intervened.

In late March, the Friends of George’s board of directors decided to take a stand against this unjust law by filing a suit against the state in federal court citing that the law would cause harm to our organization while also creating a chilling effect across the entire LGBTQIA+ community.

Hours before the law was set to take effect, a judge issued a 14-day temporary restraining order, which has since been extended through May 26. Friends of George’s is set to head to court on May 22 to state our case.

This TRO and its subsequent extension represents a first win against this bad law for all drag performers across Tennessee and our entirely volunteer-driven theatre company.

Since 2011, Friends of George’s has produced original, drag-centric performances, comedy sketches, and plays. Each production raises thousands of dollars for other Mid-South organizations that support or affirm the LGBTQIA+ population.

As a registered 501(c)(3) organization, Friends of George’s needs your support off the stage and onto the front lines of this legal fight. We have received international media attention – (it’s been wild!) because of our effort and anticipate incurring expenses – from legal to security – as we continue this journey of activism.

• Make a Donation: $25, $50, $100, $500, any amount…
• Buy merch!
• Share our story! If you’re a fan of our work, spread the word about our future shows and help our cause by telling your networks and advocating for your elected representatives.

We could not exist without your patronage and are grateful to have you in our corner on and off the stage. We thank you and love you for being a Friend of George’s.