A recent air show at Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington that featured scantily clad models raised questions about the Pentagon’s justification for banning drag shows. The event, which included risqué models dancing on stage and posing with sports cars, was part of an Air Force air show event open to the public. Meanwhile, the Pentagon has not clarified its policy after canceling two drag shows in June during Pride Month, sparking criticism from LGBTQ+ advocates who argue there appears to be a double standard at play.
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Key Points:Â
- The Joint Base Lewis-McChord’s air show included scantily clad models as part of the entertainment, causing concern among LGBTQ+ advocates who pointed out the recent ban on drag shows on military bases. The models were representing an entertainment company called Hot Import Nights.
- The Department of Defense has not yet clarified what types of entertainment are considered acceptable following the cancellation of two drag shows during Pride Month.
- The decision to allow the models at the air show is perceived as a double standard, particularly by the LGBTQ+ community. Jennifer Dane, an LGBTQ+ advocate and an Air Force veteran, argued the air show suggests heteronormative performances are acceptable, but not those associated with the LGBTQ+ community.
- Some GOP representatives argue that drag performances aren’t suitable for children or military families, while also asserting they don’t endorse any type of “oversexualized performance” on military bases.
- The standard for what is considered acceptable entertainment on military bases remains unclear, which exacerbates the ongoing debate over permissible performances.
