LGBTQ+ advocacy groups and drag queens, along with the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), filed a lawsuit Wednesday seeking an injunction against a Texas law that prohibits drag performers from being sexually explicit in public. .

of lawsuit They argue that the law could hinder free speech for Texans, threaten the lives of drag queens and outlaw public cheerleading. Conservatives across the country are cracking down on public sexual performances and calling for a ban on drug performances in front of minors.

of lawTexas Republican Governor Greg Abbott signed into law in June, banning explicit sexual performance in front of children or simulating sex in front of children, and will take effect September 1. (Related: ‘Inappropriate use’: Pentagon cancels Air Force base drag show just before Pride Month)

“Display or representation of real or simulated sexual acts, including vaginal sex, anal sex, and masturbation” is prohibited by law in public places and in front of children.

The lawsuit alleges that the law could also crack down on other performances across the board, including cheerleading, Broadway shows and karaoke nights. Violations of the law can result in fines of up to $10,000 and up to one year in prison for offenders.

“Texas’ drug ban is surprisingly broad and will curtail freedom of expression in all genres in the state,” said ACLU Texas attorney Brian Klosterbohr. Said Associated Press.

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