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Judge Upholds Ban on Drag Show, Sparks Outrage

1/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. District Judge Matthew J. Kacsmaryk upheld West Texas A&M University's ban on a student-organized drag show.
He likened drag to blackface and denied Spectrum WT relief.
Ruling relies on university president's statements that drag does not preserve dignity and is not protected speech.
LGBTQ+ advocates condemned the decision, saying it infringes free expression.
The ruling reflects Kacsmaryk's broader trend of limiting LGBTQ+ rights and civil protections.

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Story summary

U.S. District Judge Matthew J. Kacsmaryk upheld West Texas A&M University's ban on a student-organized drag show.
He likened drag to blackface and denied Spectrum WT relief.
Ruling relies on university president's statements that drag does not preserve dignity and is not protected speech.
LGBTQ+ advocates condemned the decision, saying it infringes free expression.
The ruling reflects Kacsmaryk's broader trend of limiting LGBTQ+ rights and civil protections.