Friends of George’s Fight for First Amendment Rights
Since 2011, Friends of George’s has created original, drag-centric performances, comedy sketches, and plays, raising thousands of dollars for Mid-South organizations that support and affirm the LGBTQ+ community.
In 2023, Friends of George’s challenged Tennessee’s anti-drag law in federal court. A judge ruled the law unconstitutional, affirming it violated the First Amendment. However, in July 2024, the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit reversed the ruling, determining that Friends of George’s lacked standing to sue and remanding the case for dismissal. On February 24, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear our case, allowing Tennessee’s Adult Entertainment Act to remain in effect. While these rulings are setbacks, they do not define us. We remain committed to creating joyful, LGBTQ+ inclusive art and supporting charities that uphold dignity and respect for all.
Our case has been cited in legal victories across the country, helping to fight laws aimed at silencing the LGBTQ+ community. Throughout this journey, our volunteer-driven theatre company has gained national recognition, including the 2023 Defender Award from the Dramatists Legal Defense Fund and the Dramatists Guild of America, a 2023 NOW Awards honor from Condé Nast’s them magazine, and the privilege of kicking off Pride Month with a performance at the Stonewall Inn in New York City.
We extend our deepest gratitude to our legal team at Donati Law for their tireless advocacy and unwavering belief in our right to free expression. Their dedication over the past two years has been invaluable, and we are forever grateful.
