Lawton Drag Entertainment Faces Backlash, Perseveres with VFW Benefit Show

In a troubling turn of events, Lawton Drag Entertainment, a local organization, found itself the target of hateful comments and alleged threats on social media prior to its second annual VFW Benefit show on September 7th. Despite the opposition, the group forged ahead, determined to support the veterans they hold dear.

Empowering Veterans Through Inclusive Community

Threats of Violence and Hateful Rhetoric

Ariel Monroe, a performer and co-founder of Lawton Drag Entertainment, revealed that the organization faced a barrage of disturbing calls to the local VFW Post 5263. Some individuals allegedly threatened to protest the event, with reports of members being told to "hang themselves from trees." Monroe expressed shock at the "level of hate and actual call to violence" they had never encountered before.The opposition to the event was not limited to online comments. A few veterans who saw the group's Facebook advertisements also voiced their disapproval, with comments ranging from the typical "This goes against God" to the more ominous "Well, I hope this place gets bombed." These sentiments, according to Monroe, had a tangible impact on the turnout for the benefit show.

Unwavering Support from VFW Leadership

Despite the backlash, Lawton Drag Entertainment found solace in the unwavering support of the VFW Post leadership. As a veteran who had spent time on Fort Sill and a member of the VFW, Monroe expressed gratitude for the sanctuary the organization had become for those seeking a sense of belonging and connection.In a statement, VFW board member Randy Traxler emphasized the welcoming environment the post had cultivated, where veterans who had "selflessly defended our freedoms" could gather, share their stories, and find solace. Traxler also noted that Lawton Drag Entertainment was the only organization in the past two years to raise funds for the post, underscoring the group's valuable contribution.

Responding to the Opposition with Compassion

Monroe's response to the opposition's actions was one of empathy and understanding. She acknowledged that the group's work might challenge the beliefs of some, but she urged them to engage in self-reflection."If that is enough for them to want to condemn this VFW and condemn the support and amazing work that they've done for Veterans everywhere, then I would ask them to do a little soul searching," Monroe said.The resilience and compassion demonstrated by Lawton Drag Entertainment in the face of adversity serve as a testament to the power of community and the importance of inclusivity, even in the most challenging of circumstances.