Penfield School Meeting Erupts Over Gorilla Suit Protest

PENFIELD, N.Y. – A heated school board meeting in Penfield erupted in controversy when a man in a gorilla suit and a MAGA hat appeared, prompting accusations of racism from attendees. The meeting, intended to address concerns over an LGBTQ-themed picture book with cartoon nudity on elementary school shelves, became a focal point for community outrage.

Dr. Emily Roberts, a member of the Penfield Board of Education, expressed her dismay at the situation. “I can’t believe in 2025, we’re even discussing something like this,” Dr. Roberts said. She articulated her feelings of hurt regarding the incident, asserting that the man’s actions were intended to intimidate the predominantly female and racially diverse board.

The man behind the costume, Jeff Briggs, defended his actions, denying any intent to offend. “My good friend’s grandson had complained about children in his class identifying as cats, wearing tails, whiskers, ears, and he got suspended twice. All I wanted to do was walk in with that to get a reaction, to show the school board that [dressing like an animal] could be disruptive,” said Briggs. He claimed he was unaware that the superintendent and four board members were women of color.

Briggs attempted to reach out with an apology via email, citing a lack of response. He also noted that his choice of costume was limited when he purchased the gorilla suit from Arlene’s Costumes. “I had limited options,” he explained.

The meeting’s primary agenda centered on the book titled “The Rainbow Parade,” which critics label pornographic due to its content. Despite the protests, Superintendent Dr. Tasha Potter clarified that no formal action has commenced to remove the book from school shelves. “Policy 8330 is the policy we use to determine that there’s a book that they object to being in circulation in our library,” Dr. Potter explained, indicating that any objections would be evaluated by a committee of library specialists, teachers, parents, and students.

Briggs expressed frustration over the board’s handling of the matter. “I think they’re doing more harm by putting those books on the shelves than they’re doing good. They’re harming their children by not telling them,” he asserted. The incident has drawn nationwide attention, including remarks from figures like Elon Musk.

The full interview with Jeff Briggs can be viewed on News10NBC’s YouTube page.