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RuPaul addresses backlash to drag queen library readings in Emmys speech: 'Listen to a drag queen!'

"Knowledge is power and if someone tries to restrict your access to power, they are trying to scare you,” the host said.

By

Emlyn Travis

Updated on January 15, 2024 11:26PM EST

RuPaul called out the wave of conservative backlash surrounding drag artist readings at local libraries while accepting the Reality Competition award at the 2023 Emmys.

The Emmy award-winning icon was presented the award by comedians Ken Jeong and Joel McHale — the latter of whom infamously shouted the entire time he guest judged an episode of the series — as he took the stage alongside fellow judges Michelle Visage, Carson Kressley, and Ross Mathews.

“Thank you so much, you lovely, lovely people. We are so honored to have this award,” RuPaul said. “Listen, you guys are just pure lovely for honoring our show and recognizing all of these queens.”

2023 Emmys RuPaul — RuPaul at the 2023 Emmys.
FOX

"We have released into the wild hundreds of drag queens and they’re beautiful,” the host continued as Princess Poppy, dressed as self-described green “troll-slash-hag,” stepped onto the stage. “On behalf of all of them, we thank you.”

The host then added that everyone can learn from a drag artist. “If a drag queen wants to read you a story at a library, listen to her because knowledge is power and if someone tries to restrict your access to power, they are trying to scare you,” RuPaul concluded. “So listen to a drag queen! We love you! Thank you!”

RuPaul isn’t the only one calling out the controversy. In April, RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars 8 star Mrs. Kasha Davis told EW that the “agenda” of Drag Queen Story Hour was to promote positivity. “If you happen to see somebody different in the world, treat them with kindness,” she said. “It's about kindness, its about inclusivity, it's about community, it's about celebrating who you are without abandon."

Monday’s win marks the fifth time that RuPaul’s Drag Race has won the Reality Competition category at the Emmys. The program beat out fellow contenders Survivor, The Amazing Race, Top Chef, and The Voice at the event.

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