CINCINNATI (WXIX) – Coterie Lounge and Cafe in West Chester is facing backlash online ahead of a drag queen story hour planned for this week.
Owner Ghiovanna Lora said the backlash caught her by surprise. She said she has hosted drag events before and never received negative feedback like this until now.
“I was a little nervous and I was really upset just for the simple fact that even behind a keyboard I couldn’t fathom speaking such hateful words to anybody,” Lora said.
Event details
Lora said after hosting multiple drag shows at her cafe, she wanted to try something different: A drag queen story hour set for April 16 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. featuring Hamilton-area performer Roxie D. Mocracy.
During the event, Roxie will read to children. Lora said drag queen story hour has been happening in libraries and community spaces where people can gather, feel welcomed and enjoy a shared experience. She said the event is not just for children — adults are invited too.
Online criticism
Online criticism followed a post from Darbi Boddy, CEO and founder of Access Ohio, a nonprofit focused on what it calls “preserving traditional American values.”
“Given what we know about pedophilia today in our country and in the world today only the most disgusting and depraved could actually support an event like this and you have to be a complete sicko and that’s my job and I exposed it,” Boddy said.
Lora responded to the criticism.
“She should probably educate herself on that cause there’s no affiliation between the two there’s actually more pedophiles in higher ranking positions in this country than in stages with makeup and dresses on,” Lora said.
Lora said the event is family-friendly — meant to create a positive learning environment and teach children to be kind and accept everybody.
“You know there’s nothing more hateful than sexualizing and perverting children,” Boddy said.
Lora said those who are uncomfortable do not have to attend.
“If she doesn’t like the event or doesn’t feel comfortable with her children attending the event she just shouldn’t come the same for anyone who doesn’t feel comfortable,” Lora said.
“The type of person supporting this type of behavior is sick and a pervert and disgusting and we don’t want that in our community it does not belong here in West Chester,” Boddy said.
Lora said most of the response she has received has been positive. Tickets are sold out and she said she plans to notify police ahead of the event for safety.
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