DENTON, Texas — The University of North Texas (UNT) system confirmed that it has lifted its “pause” on drag performances across its campuses, in response to a demand letter from civil liberties organizations informing the school that it was violating its students’ First Amendment rights.
On March 28, UNT System Chancellor Michael Williams issued a system-wide directive announcing an immediate “pause” on drag performances on campus. Williams’ directive came days after a similar drag ban from the Texas A&M University System was blocked by a federal judge following a lawsuit from the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE).
On Aug. 14, the American Civil Liberties Union of Texas and FIRE sent a letter informing Williams that his “pause” violated the Constitution for the same reasons.
“UNT cannot justify banning an entire class of protected expression from campus performance venues on the basis that such expression might cause offense,” the letter read. “In the same way that some people may not appreciate UNT allowing students, staff, or visitors to engage in prayer on campus or wear t-shirts supporting rival universities, the fear that such speech may be ‘offensive’ to some is not a constitutionally permissible reason to ban it.”
On Aug. 28, the UNT Office of General Counsel responded to the FIRE and ACLU of Texas letter and announced that in light of a recent decision from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit blocking yet another drag ban in Texas — this time at West Texas A&M University — “the UNT System’s temporary pause on drag performances has ended.”
“UNT repealed its drag ban following public backlash and legal pressure,” said Chloe Kempf (she/her), attorney at the ACLU of Texas. “As we and the courts have repeatedly made clear, banning drag is plainly unconstitutional. Drag is a cherished source of joy and liberation for the LGBTQIA+ community — and this reversal ensures students can once again freely express and celebrate their identities on campus.”
“If campus officials can silence expression simply because some find it ‘offensive,’ no one’s speech will be safe,” said Amanda Nordstrom (she/her), strategic campaigns counsel at FIRE. “Today it’s drag shows, but tomorrow it could be political rallies, art exhibits, or even bake sales. From West Texas to North Texas and any direction you look, the message is clear: drag is protected expression, and the show must go on.”
