Drag

Born in Willard, Missouri, Roan began uploading music to YouTube as a teenager before winning — and losing — a record deal. But the rising pop star is now inescapable, from TikTok feeds to performances at Coachella to the Billboard Hot 100.

Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour had a huge economic impact on Kansas City — and then she kept coming back. Local business owners and even the city’s tourism board say they're reaping the benefits. Plus: A new book shows how Kansas City's drag performers influenced the national scene.

Brian Kirk lost his position on a volunteer library board over his support for LGBTQ+ rights. Progressive residents say the incident has revealed discrimination in St. Joseph, Missouri.

Politicians in Missouri and Kansas have concentrated attacks on a variety of LGBTQ+ issues this year, including restrictions on drag performances. But queens in Kansas City are still determined to spread joy, love and acceptance.

A resolution passed by the St. Charles County Council requests the public library cut out “political agendas” from library spending, stop board members from posting political messages online, give up its membership from the Urban Library Council, enforce its dress code and open doors on Sundays.

The measure limits drag shows to downtown Branson, although businesses currently hosting drag shows outside of the area can continue to do so.

Despite all the anti-LGBTQ rhetoric across the country, Chappell Roan — who grew up in the small, religious town of Willard, Missouri — is sharing her spotlight with local drag queens in every city she plays on tour.

The new ordinance, which passed its first reading 3-2 on Tuesday night, would require a permit to host a drag show and would not allow shows within 600 feet of any religious institution, park or school. It would also bar anyone under 18 from attending a drag show.

The move is in response to a drag show held at a public park last month during the Rolla Pride Celebration. Council members said the performance was sexually explicit and targeted minors.