“Draggieland” is Back

March 24, 2025 – A federal judge ruled in favor of the First Amendment rights of a Texas A&M student group, blocking the university’s attempt to prohibit an upcoming drag show, Draggieland, on the College Station campus. The ruling, issued today, affirms that the university’s decision to cancel the event likely violated constitutional protections of free speech and expression.

“We’re overjoyed with today’s decision,” said the Queer Empowerment Council. “This is another display of the resilience of queer joy, as that is an unstoppable force despite those that wish to see it destroyed. While this fight isn’t over, we are going to appreciate the joy we get to bring by putting on the best show that we can do.”

The student group organizing Draggieland argued that the university’s actions amounted to censorship and discrimination based on content and viewpoint. Texas A&M officials had attempted to justify the cancellation by citing concerns about the event’s nature, but the court found these reasons insufficient to override constitutional rights.

The judge’s decision reinforces legal precedent that public universities cannot suppress student expression simply because it is controversial or unpopular. The ruling aligns with previous cases affirming that drag performances are a form of protected artistic and political expression.

This case reflects ongoing legal battles over free speech and LGBTQ+ rights on college campuses, particularly in states like Texas, where political and cultural debates surrounding drag performances have intensified. With the court’s decision, Draggieland is set to proceed as planned, marking a significant victory for student organizers and First Amendment advocates alike.