Student-led drag show hidden from parents, sparks outrage in Calif. school district

ELK GROVE, Calif. (CITC) — Parents in a California public school district are outraged after their children were allegedly forced to attend a student-led drag show without their knowledge.

The Elk Grove Unified School District (EGUSD) held its annual multicultural assembly at Pleasant Grove High School Friday. The assembly, designed to celebrate "the sights and sounds of various cultures," has previously included presentations, musical performances and a candle-lighting ceremony.

However, parents claim a drag performance was added this year unbeknownst to them. Video shows a performer dressed in drag, allegedly a student, saying that both gender and sexuality are included in culture because "culture emerges from community."

"I just don't see how that has anything to do with education," one mother said during Tuesday's school board meeting. 'It's straight up perversion."

Parents allege that the performers danced in a "provocative" manner, with at least one removing articles of clothing. While acknowledging that students can choose whether to partake in such activities once they're adults, they argued it should not be "forced upon them" as "children."

One mother told board members her son texted her saying he felt "uncomfortable and trapped" upon learning that the performance was taking place.

"The administration could have easily included an outline or program in the mass but vague email they sent out about the assembly less than 24 hours before the assembly happened," she said.

The resounding concern amongst EGUSD parents is that the performance was not communicated ahead of time, taking away the opportunity to opt their children out. They claim that the assembly was mandatory and families were instructed that early dismissals would not be permitted.

"Why was this sexual, political performance kept from parents? And students, for that matter?" another mother asked. "If you have nothing to hide, then don't hide it. If you're proud of it, then tell us. Be transparent. These are our kids, not yours."

A EGUSD spokesperson told Crisis in the Classroom (CITC) that the show "was held in full compliance with student codes of conduct and existing requirements for on-campus events" and all performances affiliated with the assembly were "approved by school staff and administration with the support of EGUSD Secondary Education."

"The primary responsibility for a student’s attire resides with the student and families," the spokesperson said. "The school district and individual schools are responsible for seeing that student attire does not interfere with the health or safety of any student, and that student attire does not contribute to a hostile or intimidating atmosphere for any student."