So my local library was hosting a “Story Book Pride Prom” for LGBT+ and allies aged 14-18 (and their parents). They were NOT the organizers of this event, they were rented out by a third party for the event (which means no tax dollars were actually spent on this, contrary to what protesters were saying). Many people rent out the library for various events, since most branches have conference rooms and spaces for large groups of people.

Well, a blogger who calls herself “The Activist Mommy” made a post calling for her followers to protest this event, call the library and express their upset, and help stop this event from taking place.

The library received so many calls— many direct threats towards the library itself and threats that there would be violence at the event if they didn’t cancel it— that they did ultimately cancel the event because they feared it was not safe.

4 local churches have offered their space for the event, and this prom will go on— but now the event planners are having to hide the location until the day of, as a safety measure. They’re also assuring people that there will be security present, to help protect the kids.

My question(s):

- should the protesters who threatened these kids and the event be located and charged?

- should the library have stood their ground and refused to cancel the event?

- is it dangerous to try to continue to hold the event knowing how many people protested it?

- would you allow your teen to go to an event like this, knowing that it’s been threatened?

Also, this is the new event: