Organizers in Philadelphia recently hosted the largest-ever drag queen story hour event at the National Constitution Center on June 1, breaking a world record. The event was sponsored by Visit Philadelphia and organized by Philadelphia Gay News, attracting 268 attendees including adults and children. A Guinness World Records adjudicator was present to verify the record, which was awarded for the first time. Children’s books that were read at the event included titles that touch on LGBTQI+ culture, such as “Twas the Night Before Pride” and “The Family Book.”
Drag queens at the event also read books like “Kevin the Unicorn: It’s Not All Rainbows,” “Hello, Philadelphia!” and “Elmer.” Visit Philadelphia promoted the record-breaking event on social media, celebrating the city as the birthplace of America and showcasing famed Philadelphia drag performers. The organization’s annual report revealed a funding of $16.6 million, with 84% coming from Philadelphia’s hotel tax and 9% from grants and contributions. When questioned about taxpayer funding for the event, Visit Philadelphia did not immediately respond.
Publisher Mark Segal of Philadelphia Gay News described the event as “history-making,” emphasizing the significance of hosting such a monumental occasion on land synonymous with America’s fight for fundamental rights and freedom. He highlighted the resilience, talent, and culture that make up the fabric of the city. No comments were received from Guinness World Records or Visit Philadelphia when reached out to by Fox News Digital. The Associated Press contributed to the report, shedding light on the event and the impact it had on the community. The drag queen story hour event received both praise and criticism, sparking conversation about LGBTQI+ representation and exposure to gender ideology.
The event raised questions about the use of taxpayer funds to support such initiatives, as Visit Philadelphia’s annual report revealed a significant portion of its funding coming from the city’s hotel tax. While some applauded the record-breaking achievement and celebrated the diversity and inclusion promoted at the drag queen story hour, others expressed concerns about the appropriateness of exposing children to LGBTQI+ themes at a young age. As debates continue around LGBTQI+ representation and education, the event serves as a reminder of the ongoing discussions and controversies surrounding gender identity and acceptance in society.
Despite the controversy surrounding the event, Visit Philadelphia and Philadelphia Gay News stand by their decision to organize the drag queen story hour, emphasizing the importance of creating inclusive spaces and celebrating diversity. The event was deemed a success by organizers, who viewed it as a powerful moment in the city’s history, showcasing the talent and culture that make Philadelphia unique. Whether the event will lead to further discussions and actions towards LGBTQI+ representation and acceptance remains to be seen, but it has certainly sparked conversations and brought attention to the ongoing debates in society. As the city of Brotherly Love continues to navigate these complex issues, the drag queen story hour event stands as a testament to the diverse and ever-evolving landscape of gender identity and expression in the modern world.
