Drag Story Hour draws support and protest in St. Johnsbury [Video]

A Drag Story Hour event at the St. Johnsbury Athenaeum Library on Saturday brought both support and protesters from the community.Drag Story Hour is an event where performers read stories to children, promoting themes of inclusion and self-expression.Hannah Pearce, a Northeast Kingdom resident, supported the event, saying it created a safe and welcoming space.“Queer people belong in the Northeast Kingdom. This is simply telling stories to kids and showing them the expanse of how people can present and celebrate their queerness. There’s nothing inappropriate for children happening here,” Pearce said.Pearce highlighted the event’s focus on acceptance, creativity, and literacy.“These performers are professionals, and we’re just having fun and celebrating literacy,” Pearce said.Outside the library, protesters voiced their concerns about the event’s suitability for children. St. Johnsbury resident Steve Bennett attended to express his objections.“Young children can’t speak for themselves. Adults need to speak for them when they’re being shown things …