No challenges or controversies can hold back the fabulous drag queen Per Sia, who has been reading to children at the Oakland Public Library for years as part of the popular Drag Story Hour program. The event series, which originated in San Francisco in 2015, seeks to promote themes of acceptance, inclusivity, and identity for young audiences at libraries and other venues, according to a recent Oaklandside article.
Last year, Per Sia appeared at the Oakland library's Golden Gate Branch for a Family Pride event, enchanting kids and parents alike with her glittery presence. This summer, the Bay Area-based Latinx non-binary storyteller is taking her talents on an "East Bay summer tour," visiting several Oakland Public Library branches to delight audiences with her storytelling abilities.
Despite the success and popularity of these events, Drag Story Hour has not been without its share of confrontation. Drag performers reading children's books across the United States have faced increasing criticism and even threats from conservative protesters. Some critics jump on a false, homophobic conspiracy theory suggesting that LGBTQ rights supporters and educators are "grooming" children.
An incident involving extremist group the Proud Boys last year saw members disrupting a Drag Story Hour event at the San Lorenzo Library, a 15-minute drive south of Oakland. The aggressors shouted homophobic and transphobic slurs, and one even wore a shirt with the message "Kill your local pedophile" alongside an image of an assault weapon. Faced with such hostility, the Drag Story Hour organizers created a safety marshal program, Shields Up!, which trains volunteers in de-escalation tactics, contingency planning, and audience protection.
In defiance of these recent altercations, the Oakland Public Library staunchly supports Drag Story Hour. In a statement shared with The Oaklandside, the institution said, "The program inspires imagination and empathy, is responsive to children’s developmental needs, and is part of our commitment to serve and represent families in Oakland."
Throughout the summer, Per Sia has been reading various children's books, such as "A Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo," "It Feels Good to Be Yourself: A Book About Gender Identity," and "Bodies Are Cool." She even adds her drag performance flair by incorporating lip-sync numbers, much to the delight of both children and their Gen-X parents.
Despite the risks and anxiety that come with performing at Drag Story Hour events, Per Sia remains steadfast in her mission. In an emotional moment before a recent Oakland reading, a mother handed Per Sia a postcard, sharing how her 3-year-old daughter had been captivated by the performer. The little girl nicknamed Per Sia "Macarena" after the dance she performs at her readings, and even mimicked her style with long tutus and sneakers.
