This public service announcement and call of action is from the Awake Downers Grove chapter.
Snapshot of Downers Grove Public Library "Drag Queen Bingo" event registration page.
It was brought to the attention of Awake IL board and chapter leadership on Friday 8.26.22 that Downers Grove Public Library is sponsoring a "Drag Queen Bingo event" for minors (grades 7-12) scheduled on-site for Tuesday, October 11, 2022 7:00pm-8:30pm.
The scheduled Drag Queen "Aurora Divine" has been promoted as "raunchy" in other event promotions.
Questions posed by concerned citizens:
"Why are our tax dollars promoting adult entertainment events for children?"
"How is this fulfilling the values of the Downers Grove Library?"
"Are my tax dollars funding lewd acts in front of minors?"
"Why is the library board OK with exploiting children in a public setting that may well encourage attendance of sex offenders/child predators?"
"Why is a minor allowed to register for this event without permission/notification of a parent of guardian?"
We found no mention of this "Drag Queen Bingo" event in any of the recent Downers Grove Library Board minutes nor is it listed on any posted agenda.
June Minutes (A discussion of tax-levy and hiring more full time staff was discussed.)
Parents expressed concerned over the registration process of this event as it pertains to minors. The page requires attendees to put their name, phone, email, and grade level into the portal when registering; it does not require a library card. We do not know who has access to this information. See video below:
CALL OF ACTION
In the interest of social welfare, we are providing the email of the library board trustees for you and suggest you:
1) Respectfully share your concerns and feedback; sample letter below. Read the Library Board bylaws here.
2) Attend The next Downers Grove Library Board Meeting is Wed. Sept. 28th at 7:30pm.
DOWNERS GROVE LIBRARY EMAILS (copy/paste):
DO NOT copy/paste a message to make sure your message is original and more meaningful.