Google disassociates from drag performance following employee petition

Google is distancing itself from a drag performance initially planned as the closing event for Pride month. A group of employees circulated an internal petition opposing the performance, citing religious discrimination.

Each year, Google sponsors a series of Pride events in San Francisco and other locations for employees and the public. However, this year, the closing event titled “Pride and Drag Show” featuring popular performer “Peaches Christ” faced backlash from employees. The event was scheduled to take place at LGBTQ+ bar Beaux in San Francisco on Tuesday. The internal description of the event, which has now been removed, expressed excitement about wrapping up Pride month.

Employees noticed that the company removed the show from the internal company events page around the same time the petition began circulating. The petition, signed by several hundred employees, claimed that the drag performance sexualizes and disrespects Christian co-workers, accusing Google of religious discrimination. The performers’ provocative artistry was deemed offensive to their religious beliefs and sensitivities.

Google confirmed that they no longer categorized the performance as a Google-recognized diversity, equity, and inclusion event. Instead, they organized a separate social gathering at Google offices and encouraged employees to attend that instead.

According to Google spokesperson Chris Pappas, the closing drag event was planned by an internal team without following the standard events process. However, the performance will still take place at the scheduled venue and remains open to the public. Pappas mentioned that Google has been proud to support the LGBTQ+ community and has included drag artists in their Pride celebrations for many years.

The company did not explicitly state whether the employee petition influenced the decision to change the closing event. The petition alleged that the venue violated Google’s event guidelines, which prohibit sexually explicit activities. Additionally, it demanded an apology from the event organizers and promoters.

Some employees criticized the petition, arguing that the complaints were subjective and contributed to the ongoing political culture wars. Drag shows have been targeted by religious and conservative organizations and politicians, particularly leading up to the 2024 presidential election. This includes a series of legislative proposals supported by GOP governors that aim to restrict drag events.

Furthermore, employees expressed disappointment in Google leadership for quietly removing the event from the internal website and giving in to pressure from the petitioners. A company spokesperson stated that changes to the event were communicated to a team employee resource group in the previous week.

In San Francisco, Pride events take place every June, which is recognized as Pride month. These events commonly feature various stage acts, including drag shows, at local venues. Google is just one of many corporate sponsors of these Pride events, which also include fireside chats with influential figures and community documentary screenings for both the public and employees.

The company’s Pride website showcases several affirmations supporting the LGBTQ+ community, emphasizing the importance of inclusive spaces that foster belonging, particularly in light of the global shutdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.