Texas A&M Bans Drag Performances from Campuses Statewide

On February 28, 2025, the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents passed a resolution banning drag shows across all 11 of its university campuses, effective immediately. This decision directly impacts events like "Draggieland," an annual drag show scheduled for March 27, 2025, at the Rudder Theatre on the College Station campus, forcing it to seek an off-campus venue. The ban extends to other campuses, such as Texas A&M University Corpus Christi and East Texas A&M University, where students have also held drag shows.

The resolution states that drag shows are "inconsistent with the System’s mission and core values, including the value of respect for others," and argues they "are likely to create or contribute to a hostile environment for women," citing university anti-discrimination policies and Title IX. It further claims that on-campus drag shows could be seen as promoting "gender ideology," which the regents link to directives from President Donald Trump and Texas Governor Greg Abbott that prohibit the use of federal and state funds for such purposes. The board directed the system’s chancellor and campus presidents to enforce this policy by canceling any planned drag events.

This move has sparked controversy. Civil rights groups, like the ACLU of Texas and Equality Texas, criticized it as an overreach, arguing it stifles free expression and ignores the diversity of drag performers, including women who use the art form to challenge stereotypes. Students, particularly from the Queer Empowerment Council at Texas A&M, expressed disappointment, noting the ban undermines inclusivity, especially after the loss of the campus Pride Center due to Texas’ Senate Bill 17 (an anti-DEI law). They’re now exploring alternative venues for Draggieland and offering refunds for pre-purchased tickets.

The decision echoes a prior incident at West Texas A&M University (part of the A&M System), where President Walter Wendler canceled a drag show in 2023, calling it degrading to women. That led to a First Amendment lawsuit from students, which remains unresolved after the Supreme Court declined to intervene in March 2024. The Texas A&M System’s broader ban now sets the stage for potential legal challenges, with advocates arguing it violates free speech protections. Meanwhile, supporters of the ban, aligning with conservative sentiments, see it as a stand for decency and women’s dignity.