GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — As dozens of people headed in to a drag show featuring performers with disabilities, protesters lined up outside to object to possible exploitation.
The Drag Syndrome show, whose performers have Down syndrome or other disabilities, was held at Wealthy Theatre in Grand Rapids Saturday on the first day of Project 1 by ArtPrize.
The show was originally going to be held at Tanglefoot, but building owner Republican congressional candidate Peter Meijer said he would not let the show go on at his venue. He said in a letter to ArtPrize that “vulnerable populations” like those with disabilities “should be protected.”
Protesters on Saturday echoed Meijer’s concerns.
“Love them. Do not exploit them,” one protester’s sign read.
“Stop the exploitation,” read another. “Defend the innocent & vulnerable.”
But performers told News 8 that they feel joy during the show.
The conversations between protesters and show organizers and attendees were peaceful, but Grand Rapids were on scene just to keep an eye on things.
More news at WOODTV.com