Home Drag performance in Arlington County draws protestors, bomb threats
Virginia News

Drag performance in Arlington County draws protestors, bomb threats

Crystal Graham
lgbtq
(© 9nong – stock.adobe.com)

A drag performance in Arlington County drew protestors, and the venue was the target of a bomb threat on Saturday.

The bomb threat was received by email threatening Freddie’s Beach Bar, the location of the story time drag performance, and the home of the establishment’s owner, Freddie Lutz.

Protestors also gathered outside of Freddie’s during the performance which went on as planned.

The Arlington County Police Department is investigating the bomb threats.

Arlington County and the County Board put out a statement today following the events this weekend.

“Arlington County and the County Board unequivocally support the LGBTQ+ community. ACPD’s swift response ensured the safety of patrons and staff, and the fortitude of Freddie and drag queen Tara Hoot allowed the show to go on.

“With protests, threats, and violence targeting the LGBTQ+ community – and drag shows in particular – on the rise across the country, expressions of hatred and bigotry have absolutely no place in our community, and the Arlington County Board condemns these threats of violence and attempted intimidation of our community.

“Freddie’s represents the very best of Arlington’s values as an establishment that prides itself on creating a safe and welcoming space for the LGBTQ+ community and allies by centering love over hate, understanding over unacceptance, and empathy over bigotry.

“The board, like Freddie’s, remains committed to ensuring Arlington remains a safe, welcoming and inclusive place for our LGBTQ+ community.”

Crystal Graham

Crystal Graham

Crystal Abbe Graham is the regional editor of Augusta Free Press. A 1999 graduate of Virginia Tech, she has worked for 25 years as a reporter and editor for several Virginia publications, written a book, and garnered more than a dozen Virginia Press Association awards for writing and graphic design. She was the co-host of "Viewpoints," a weekly TV news show, and co-host of Virginia Tonight, a nightly TV news show on PBS. Her work on "Virginia Tonight" earned her a national Telly award for excellence in television.

Latest News

How to Bet On the Daytona 500 in California
Sports

How to Bet On the Daytona 500 in California

ron sanchez uva basketball vt
Basketball, Sports

The tweak UVA Basketball coach Ron Sanchez would need if he were to get the job full time

One lesson Ron Sanchez could take with him into next year, if he, indeed, ends up getting the UVA Basketball job on a full-time basis after the season, would be, succession planning.

george mason
Basketball, Sports

George Mason rallies, beats Saint Joseph’s, to stay atop A-10 standings

George Mason took the lead for good on a Brayden O’Connor bucket with 1:18 to go, then got a couple of stops on defense to complete the 58-57 win over Saint Joseph’s, to maintain the lead in the A-10.

isaac mckneely uva basketball
Basketball, Sports

Five Observations: UVA Basketball gets more good offense in road win

Daytona 500 Odds, Picks, & How To Bet
NASCAR

Daytona 500 Odds, Picks, & How To Bet

uva basketball
Basketball, Sports

Live Coverage: UVA Basketball grits out 73-70 win at Virginia Tech

How To Bet On The Daytona 500 in Florida
Sports News

How To Bet On The Daytona 500 in Florida