ENFIELD, Conn. — Organizers of a drag story hour for children in Enfield have canceled the upcoming event saying there have been hints of violence on social media.
This controversy comes after a new flag policy in town that limits what flags can be flown on town property.
The drag story hour was originally supposed to be for children and their parents, set for April at the Enfield Library. But, Enfield Pride organizers took to Facebook saying the event was canceled after insinuations of violence.
"The pushback was fast and pretty brutal," said Greg Gray, the President of Enfield Pride and Pastor of the United Church of Christ.
Gray said when news of the event was posted to Facebook, there were many comments that ultimately forced the decision to cancel the event.
"They are being very aggressive towards this event and the parents bringing children to these events. We do not want to expose children to that," said Gray.
The event was supposed to feature a drag queen reading several stories to children and their parents.
Gray said while there were no specific threats of violence, it was enough for organizers to worry about the well-being of the library staff and the families.
"At no point in time do I ever want to dream about putting a child at harm's way, that’s both physically and with words," said Gray.
This isn't the first time Gray has seen community pushback or inappropriate language.
A church service was disrupted back in June and the church was vandalized in November.
This drag cancellation comes days after a rally to protest the town council’s vote earlier this month to change the town’s flag ordinance to only allow the American, State, the MIA/POW and flags representing military branches to be flown on town buildings and town property.
Gray said members of Enfield Pride are just hoping for respect moving forward.
"Enfield Pride is training up a generation to know they are loved and cared for in this town," said Gray. "If you do not support the events of Enfield Pride, then just don’t come."
Enfield Pride said they do have other events coming up which they look forward to hosting for the community.
Lindsey Kane is a reporter at FOX61 News. She can be reached at Lkane@fox61.com. Follow her on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
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