Geauga County drag queen brunch, story time still on for Saturday, after police urged organizers...

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Crime

Geauga County drag queen brunch, story time still on for Saturday, after police urged organizers to cancel

Published: Mar. 30, 2023, 12:18 p.m.

By Molly Walsh | [e-mail]

CLEVELAND, Ohio – Geauga County authorities are urging organizers to cancel a drag queen story hour and brunch scheduled for Saturday “in order to protect all involved, the children attending, and the residents of Chester Township.”

But the Community Church of Chesterland and restaurant Element 41 are not canceling their drag queen story hour and brunch. ...“If we shrink in the face of hate, then what?” said Church Pastor Jess Peacock. “If we back down, what’s next?”

The Proud Boys, an all-male, neo-fascist organization, last week circulated notices encouraging protests at the sold-out drag brunch that’s set for Saturday at Element 41 in Chardon.

In a joint statement on the Chester Township police Facebook, the department, Chardon police and the Geauga County Sheriff’s office have asked the church and restaurant to cancel the weekend event. ... “Based on current intelligence information as well as information provided by the event organizer, there is a realistic threat that organized protests and counter-protests could result in violence,” the statement said. “It is important to note that the ‘Story Hour’ event being held in Chester Township is focused on children and there will be children present at the church.”

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