“Drag Queen Story Hour,” the controversial event scheduled at the public Ben May Library in Mobile that has been talked about for weeks across the state and the country, has finally happened – at least for the first time.

The initial test-run, of what is set to become a regular occurrence, drew hundreds of people, per NBC 15. Besides the expected protesters and counter-protesters who stayed outside, a large number of Alabama parents brought their children – ranging from ages three to eight – to the ironic spectacle that featured men dressed as women reading fictional stories.

The event was sponsored by the LBGTQ+ nonprofit Rainbow Mobile and ultimately filled two rooms at the library. Protesters included local clergymen and concerned citizens, while counter-protesters were members of the LBGTQ+ community as well as allies.

NBC 15 reported that protesters were ‘largely’ peaceful, however views of the story hour – which featured books such as “Rainbow Fish” – were radically different. 
“The issue that brings us out here today is what is appropriate for children and protecting the children,” Tea Party activist Pete Riehm said. “What it comes down to is what is appropriate for 3-to-8 year olds and should a public institution be doing that.”

Stacy Mitchell added that men pretending to be women could confuse children.

“God said in the bible that if he made you a boy you’re a boy. If he made you a girl you’re a girl. If you try to change that you can’t,” Mitchell outlined.

But one of the drag queens, Ambrosia Starling, said their agenda was well-intentioned.

“We are going to make Alabama beautiful, we just have to learn to treat each other that way first,” Starling said.

Sean Ross is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @sean_yhn