RuPaul defends drag queen story hours at Emmys: ‘Knowledge is power’

RuPaul Charles passionately defended drag queen storytime in his Emmy acceptance speech, saying critics were trying to “limit their access to power.”

“Listen, if a drag queen says she wants to read a story at the library, listen to her,” the “RuPaul's Drag Race” star said on stage in Los Angeles on Monday, speaking at a convention. He said this while accepting his record eight consecutive wins. He was named Outstanding Emcee in the Reality or Competition Program category at the 75th Annual Awards Ceremony.

“Knowledge is power. If someone tries to limit your access to power, they're trying to scare you,” the 63-year-old performer said to applause.

“So listen to the drag queens!” Charles said.

The TV star's comments come amid a spate of proposals to ban drag shows across the United States in recent years. Last year, a federal judge ruled that a Texas law banning certain “sexually oriented” performances from public places or where minors could view them was unconstitutional.

At least six states have enacted laws restricting “adult” or drug performances.