Letter of Response to Drag Show Threat Incident

STAND, the Steamboat Team to Disrupt Antisemitism and Discrimination, envisions a community that won’t STAND for hate. Recently, community members witnessed a threat to drag performers that resulted in the arrest of an individual allegedly intending to perpetrate a violent crime.

While we are relieved that the quick response of witnesses and decisive action of Steamboat Springs Police Department who addressed the immediate danger, we understand the ripple effects, fear, and concern this may cause among affected communities and our Routt County community as whole.

We unequivocally condemn any form of violence or discrimination. Such actions have no place in our community and are antithetical to our shared values of peace and inclusivity.

Our mission is to disrupt hate and promote anti-discrimination, inviting our valley to envision a community free from discrimination and violence. This incident shows us we have work to do. Our ongoing initiatives and efforts to combat discrimination will continue with even greater resolve, and we invite you to come on this journey with us.

We urge everyone in the community to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious or harmful behavior. This is our shared responsibility, our duty as citizens. Together, we can continue to build a community where everyone feels safe and valued.

Despite this unsettling incident, we remain hopeful and resolute. Our dedication to creating a better, more inclusive future for all remains unwavering. We thank you for your continued support and engagement and invite you to join our Convenings, the next of which will be in late September.

Queer Futures, our local LGBTQIA2S+ Resource Center, is planning several events in response to this incident, including hosting INTERVENE with Graham Hackett of Comma Projects on August 1 at 5:30pm. INTERVENE is a program that prepares people to safely intervene as a bystander when they observe a potentially dangerous situation. Contact chelsie@queerfuturesco.org to RSVP.

Queer Futures, FRESH Drag Show, and the Steamboat Springs Police Department continue to work together to ensure the safety of future drag shows.

To report other incidents of discrimination and harm, visit our website at www.standsteamboat.org  - but for immediate threats always dial 911.

Hoping for a brighter future for our community,

STAND Advisory Council, Better Tomorrow, Ron Krall & Mark Fitzgerald, Rabbi Kolby Morris-Dahary, Jen Bock, Patrick Madden