Bomb Threat Fails to Disrupt Drag Queen Story Hour at New Art Center

A supposed bomb threat aimed at the New Art Center in Newton, Massachusetts, was successfully thwarted, allowing a scheduled Drag Queen Story Hour event to continue without incident. The threat, received just before 10 a.m., warned of bombs planted on the center’s building at Washington Park with an ominous threat of detonation at 11 a.m. Emily O’Neil, the executive director of the center, notified authorities immediately upon receiving the threat, setting off a swift response from the Newton Police Department and the Newton Fire Department.

Despite not directly referencing the event, the timing of the threat, just ahead of the public story hour, raised suspicions that it was linked to the scheduled drag queen event. Missy Steak, the drag queen host for the story hour, expressed a commitment to creating inclusive and joyful spaces, irrespective of the intimidation attempt.

The New Art Center, known for its diverse programs and community outreach, faced its first ever bomb threat in its 47-year history. Newton police, accompanied by firefighters, thoroughly searched and cleared the building to ensure the safety of attendees and staff, prior to the scheduled event.

Although some attendees chose to depart after being informed of the threat, around 30 families decided to stay and participate in the Drag Queen Story Hour, which remained unaffected by the scare. Missy Steak’s message of kindness and celebration amidst adversity resonated with those present, as the event continued with support from Newton police officers.

The Drag Queen Story Hour, a part of the New Art Center’s initiative for diversified and inclusive programming, was part of the Pride month celebration. The center reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a welcoming and hate-free environment for all community members, emphasizing the importance of art in building a united and innovative society.

Events like drag queen story hours have increasingly become targets of hate groups, with instances of disruption reported in various regions, including Newton, Massachusetts, and others like Churchville, Virginia, and Claremont, New Hampshire, by the NSC-131 group. The FBI and the Department of Homeland Security have recently issued warnings about the potential threats posed to LGBTQ+ events by extremist organizations.