11th Circuit Upholds Naples Indoor, Adult-Only Drag Show Restrictions

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit ruled in favor of the city of Naples, Florida, allowing it to require that a drag show organized by Naples Pride be held indoors and restricted to adult audiences, citing public safety and protection of children as key reasons. The court found that the city's restrictions did not discriminate against Naples Pride's viewpoint and were consistent with the city's role in managing a limited public forum. This decision overturned a lower court's preliminary injunction that had blocked these restrictions, emphasizing that the First Amendment does not guarantee the right to hold an obscene drag performance in public view of children. Judges appointed by President Trump formed the majority, while a Biden appointee dissented. The ruling was celebrated by groups advocating for public decency and child protection, while the organizers argued the move indoors affected their fundraising and ticket sales. The case highlights ongoing tensions over drag performances in public spaces, especially near children, amidst broader national debates around LGBTQ events and First Amendment rights.