"We are equally concerned about how these events might be used in a political context particularly to further attacks against the LGBTQIA+ community, or to undermine the arts education work or overall operation of Walton Arts Center for the entire NWA community," the statement said. Seven Walton Arts Center board members resign amid drag controversy Get Tickets Here! Seven Walton Arts Center board members resign amid drag controversy NWA EDITORIAL | Dispute between NWA Equality, Walton Arts Center is the Hanna worked as the development services coordinator, which was in line with the fundraising department, and she was involved in the companys diversity group. Seven Walton Arts Center board members resign amid drag controversy By. by Becca Martin-Brown | April 24, 2022 at 1:00 a.m. "For Walton Arts Center, the future in my view will be more about quality and not quantity," says WAC CEO Peter Lane. Material from the Associated Press is Copyright 2023, Associated Press and may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. This comes a week after NWA Equality announced drag performances are no longer allowed at Walton Arts Center facilities, where minors are permitted, during NWA Pride Weekend. 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By Wal-Mart Heiress. The organization also states that the WAC has a policy that allegedly states parents are the only ones qualified to determine what is appropriate for their child to view. .css-16c7pto-SnippetSignInLink{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;cursor:pointer;}Sign In, Copyright 2023 Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All Rights Reserved, KitchenAid promo code: Get 30% Off first water filter + 20% Off refills, Use Nike promo code to enjoy 20% Off select styles, Wayfair Exclusive App Deal: Additional 20% off furniture, Take 20% off Your Entire Order - Target promo Code, Up to 70% off the hottest summer deals + free shipping with Walmart coupons. The Walton Arts Center (WAC) has informed Northwest Arkansas Equality that drag performances where minors are permitted are no longer . On this April the 20th, I would like to personally thank the Kansas legislature for keeping us safe from the incredible dangers of Marijuana and allowing us such easy access (Spangles drivethru) to the safer, healthier alternative- alcohol. The Walton Arts Center confirmed the resignation of Shabana Kauser, Elecia Smith and Shelley Simmons. Terms of Use & Privacy Policy. FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. Mere weeks after state leaders specifically targeted drag shows for young audiences, why put the Walton Arts Center squarely in the middle of that controversy? Wilson did not detail who was involved in the decision. Our goal is to work with small- to medium-sized businesses rooted in the community. Explore Upcoming Concerts and Events at Walton Arts Center. It just feels like I was fooled, to be honest, she said. The city or university appointed all the other members who resigned. Sen. Gary Stubblefield, R-Branch, filed a bill to classify "drag performances" as adult-oriented businesses to bar them from being performed in front of minors. The NWA Pride Youth Zone event will reportedly be moved to the Fayetteville Town Center. The policy was the same for the teen zone last year. It will include arts and crafts, storybook readings, a space for teens and a resource fair of LGBTQ-supportive, youth-focused organizations for parents and guardians to gain information. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 restaurants, and breakfast. Annual student-led fashion show celebrates the evolution of clothing and student growth. By subscribing or donating to the Arkansas Times, you'll not only have access to all of our articles, but you'll also be helping us hire more writers and expand our coverage. All tickets purchased to the show will be fully refunded, according to the email. Comedian Tig Notaro cancels show at Walton Arts Center - MSN Gathright said he met with three board members afterward in an attempt to reverse the decision, but it was a stalemate. Material from the Associated Press is Copyright 2023, Associated Press and may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. "This decision by the CEO was not only misguided and insensitive, but also deeply hurtful and disrespectful to the LGBTQ community," Jebaraj said. On May 18, the Walton Arts Center released a statement responding to the controversy where it said its decision to not host the events centered around the heightened and divisive political conversations around drag and minors. All rights reserved. The most recent session of the Arkansas General Assembly delivered more tangible proof of antipathy through legislation that, for example, prohibits transgender people at public schools from using a restroom that does not correspond with the sex listed on their birth certificate. "NWA Equality chose to move all of their events from Walton Arts Center.". We are deeply saddened and disappointed to confirm that seven members of our board have resigned today. Walton Arts Center board members resign over drag ban nwahomepage.com - by: Justin Trobaugh 1d. The legislative onslaught of anti-transgender or anti-LGBTQ bills all were advanced as ways to protect children. A castle town turned manufacturing heartland, Kitakyushu is known for its cutting-edge innovations in eco-friendly technology and its lively, unforgettable festivals within Fukuoka Prefecture. Reddit and its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better experience. Walton Arts Center | Fayetteville AR - Facebook This is in response in part due to the . "We respect these board members and the decision that they have made, and we wish them well," she said. The resignations came soon after the Walton Arts Center said it had concerns over a policy regarding parental attendance and would not host any drag events for minors during the Northwest Arkansas Pride Festival and Parade to be held June 24. The other . Aren't we all in that boat? Example video title will go here for this video. FAYETTEVILLE -- At least seven members of the Walton Arts Center board resigned Friday after the center's decision to prohibit drag performances for minors during this year's Pride festival to be held June 24. To suggest Arkansas is a welcoming environment for the people who express themselves through drag show performances would be a stretch of significant proportions. The teen zone will be for teens only, but with a designated area for parents and guardians, similar to a high school dance, according to the release. Several of our long-term packages cost less than $15 per day, including our popular sponsorship program. Get the Android Weather app from Google Play, Thousands without power across Northwest Louisiana,, KNWA Today: Meeting the cast of It Shoulda Been, Princess Dianas iconic red sheep sweater could go, Fayetteville ranks 2nd as the hottest national small, Closer look at how June played out in football recruiting, WATCH: Pig Trail sits down with Dudley Dawson to, Razorbacks begin agreeing to terms with MLB teams, Hog Hoops Report with Kevin McPherson (07-16-23), Arkansas Football Recruiting Report with Otis Kirk, Bransons Famous Baldknobbers continue legacy of, Bring your skin back to life with cosmetic fillers. The WAC's actions aren't the only ones worthy of inspection. The company framed it as a safety precaution based on divisive politics, but some are saying the decision is inherently political. One is tolerance and the other is awareness that people who disagree over the things they hold dear really can live together in love and respect.". Please let them know you appreciate their support for our work. Walton Arts Center 495 W. Dickson St. Fayetteville, AR 72701 Box Office Lobby Hours: Monday-Friday / 10am-2pm; 90 minutes prior to most performances Box Office Phone Hours: Monday-Friday / 10am-5pm; 90 minutes prior to most performances Box Office #: 479.443.5600 Admin Office #: 479.443.9216 info@waltonartscenter.org. Copyright 2023 Nexstar Media Inc. All rights reserved. Six Walton Arts Center board members resign amid drag controversy. Entertainment in this teen space is similar to a high school dance, with DJs, musical acts, and youth-appropriate performers and content, including drag performers.. Subscribe and get full access to Ground News. Shelley Simmons resigned Tuesday, a center spokeswoman confirmed. During this time, customers can save on top products such as shirts, shoes, accessories and home items, all by quality. Visit Kokura: 2023 Kokura, Kitakyushu Travel Guide | Expedia FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. The story was updated to correct the group that nominated Simmons. Associated Press text, photo, graphic, audio and/or video material shall not be published, broadcast, rewritten for broadcast or publication or redistributed directly or indirectly in any medium. FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. *Correction: A previous version of this story incorrectly stated that an executive recommended a drag queen should ride on the float. Tig Notaro cancels Walton Arts Center show during Pride festivities Arkansas. Neither these AP materials nor any portion thereof may be stored in a computer except for personal and noncommercial use. FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. The bill was eventually amended to remove specific references to drag shows, but in the process, antagonism for such performances took center stage. Our monthly magazine is free at over 500 locations in Central Arkansas. This is in response in part due to the center's decision to no longer host drag. Art Hotel KOKURA New Tagawa. Walton Arts Center confirms resignation of three more board members that two city-appointed board members Casey Hamaker and Mervin Jebaraj confirmed the lack of a vote. For non-personal use or to order multiple copies, please contact The controversy is about two friends who have had a momentary difference of opinion. Walton Arts Center is a performing arts center. The Walton Arts Center (WAC) has informed Northwest Arkansas Equality that drag performances where minors are permitted are no longer allowed in its facilities during Northwest Arkansas Pride Weekend. Follow 5NEWS on social media:Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube. Gathright said that the NWA Pride celebration would not stop, and they have received overwhelming support since the announcement. Simmons was appointed by the Walton Family Foundation. FAYETTEVILLE -- A ninth member of the Walton Arts Center board has resigned. The company framed it as a safety precaution based on divisive politics, but some are saying the decision is inherently political. To get started or for more information, call Dustin at 479-387-1002 or send us an email. Print Headline: 8th member resigns from arts center board. 479.443.5600. Walton Arts Center has announced the lineup for its Artoosphere Festival happening May 4-24. . The AP will not be held liable for any delays, inaccuracies, errors or omissions therefrom or in the transmission or delivery of all or any part thereof or for any damages arising from any of the foregoing. A little more than a week ago NWA Equality publicly announced Walton Arts Center would not be a venue for Northwest Arkansas Pride Festival events. The cancellation comes amidst controversy at the Walton Arts Center after CEO Peter Lane informed officials with NWA Equality that some elements involving drag story time and performances in the Youth Zone during the NWA Pride festival would not be permitted at the facility. Four Walton Arts Center board members are shown in these undated file photos. Mary Hennigan. arktimes.com - Mary Hennigan 1d. On Wednesday, the nonprofit NWA Equality released a statement that announced all official Northwest Arkansas Pride programming would be pulled from the Walton Arts Center because the theater company had called off drag performances by adults specifically for minors. This decision was based on safety concerns and because of the divisive political rhetoric at this time, said Jennifer Wilson, public relations director for the Walton Arts Center. Art World Is Roiled The Walton Arts Center confirmed the resignation of Shabana Kauser, Elecia Smith and Shelley Simmons. Please read our Terms of Use or contact us. Stay at this 3.5-star hotel in Kitakyushu. Hanna, 33, said that the diversity group was not involved in the decision making, and when she pushed back on the decision, her considerations werent heard. Comedian Tig Notaro cancels Walton Arts Center appearance "Parents/guardians and children are welcome and encouraged to attend spaces together," the statement said. Four Walton Arts Center board members are shown in these undated file photos. Walton Arts Center Artosphere Festival events announced - KNWA FOX24 nine of the centers 23 board members have resigned. $37. 87990cbe856818d5eddac44c7b1cdeb8, Continue reading your article witha WSJ subscription, Already a subscriber? In a diversity group meeting following the announcement, an executive told employees that they did not have a budget to make a float for the parade. Enter your ZIP code to show the . The decision the Walton Arts Center made to restrict drag performances where children are present has people up in arms, to say the least. Instead, NWA Pride Youth Zone will take place at the Fayetteville Town Center during NWA Pride Weekend. The center reiterated a previous statement saying it recognizes drag as a performance medium that it presents on its stages regularly, which will not change. (KNWA/KFTA) The Walton Arts Center confirms on May 23 the resignation of three more members of its board of directors following a decision regarding its policy on drag performance. "North Kyushu") is the northernmost city of Kyushu and has been an important hub for both land and marine traffic since olden times. Eighth member resigns from Walton Arts Center board amid drag decision Arkansans for Social Justice hopes petition will reverse 'drag - MSN All rights reserved. Army Corps of Engineers begins effort to deepen Arkansas River, One person dies after car fire incident in Fayetteville, Heat returns in a big way through the first half of the week, Preferred pronoun rules would change under new Arkansas Bill, Arkansas bill prohibiting transgender people from using restrooms that match gender identity signed into law, Amid LGBTQ+ library book controversy, Siloam Springs fires its city admin, originally filed to classify drag performances, How to watch the 5+ app on your streaming device. None of what's mentioned above is new to those in the LGBTQ+ community. NWA Equality in a news release said parents and guardians are invited to attend the festival's youth zone together. The Walton Effect: Art World Is Roiled By Wal-Mart Heiress Staff Listing - Walton Arts Center Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in our reviews. "After careful consideration, we are compelled by our consciences to make this decision," Hamaker said. Visit nwaonline.com/220619Daily/ for today's photo gallery..(NWA Democrat-Gazette/Hank Layton). I was like, so you literally want to parade one drag queen around town, but you dont want to do anything to actually support them, Hanna said. According to NWA Equality, while requesting to book the WAC for the NWA Pride Youth Zone, the WAC responded by saying that "drag performances where minors are permitted are no longer allowed" at the facility. "Our concern was not simply around the physical safety surrounding these events, but the policy to not allow parents, guardians and caregivers into the Youth Zone," the statement said. Copyright 2023, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Inc. Walton Arts Center leaders had declined to host a drag performance for youth that NWA Equality had planned for the venue as part of its Pride festivities. Stock market today: Wall Street ticks higher as earnings, Massive search is underway for missing children swept, Hollywood plunges into all-out war on the heels of, Thousands without power in NWLA, ETX and SW Arkansas, Hall of Famer Johnny Bench apologizes for antisemitic, Japans prime minister visits the UAE as part of, Smokeageddon was unprecedented. The decision the Walton Arts Center made to restrict drag performances where children are present has people up in arms, to say the least. Comedian Tig Notaro cancels show at Walton Arts Center - KNWA FOX24 Story readings will include community members, some in costume, reading age-appropriate books to children and their parents/guardians. Official site of Walton Arts Center. Explore the nuances of feng shui and find product recommendations for setting up your ideal bedroom, from calming water fountains to handy closet organizers. We respect these board members and the decision that they have made, and we wish them well. Walton Arts Center responds to drag performance controversy with According to a WAC statement issued Thursday night, its leaders asked if it could "help NWA Pride reach its intended goals for the Youth Zone without drag performances for minors. The CEO failed to seek advice from either the board or staff DEI committees and undermined the organizations commitment to its mission of promoting diversity, equity and inclusion. It was an expression of disappointment. Shame, said another. Tig Notaro, a wonderfully deadpan queer comedian, has canceled her show at the Walton Arts Center "due to a scheduling conflict," according to an email sent to ticket holders, the. It is located in Fayetteville, Arkansas, near the campus of the University of Arkansas and serves as a cultural center for the Northwest Arkansas area. A total of nine Walton Arts Center board of directors have sent in their resignation letters following an executive decision to ban drag performances where minors would be able to attend during Northwest Arkansas Pride in June. Walton Arts Center 495 W. Dickson St. Fayetteville, AR 72701 Box Office Lobby Hours: Monday-Friday / 10am-2pm; 90 minutes prior to most performances Box Office Phone Hours: Monday-Friday / 10am-5pm; 90 minutes prior to most performances Box Office #: 479.443.5600 Admin Office #: 479.443.9216 Supporting the Arkansas Times' independent journalism is more vital than ever. (KNWA/KFTA) The Walton Arts Center released a statement on May 18 responding to the controversy caused after it decided to not host drag story time or drag performances. He said Walton Arts Center President and Chief Executive Officer Peter Lane made a political decision to no longer permit age-appropriate drag performances without consulting the board. 123 were here. It all makes for serious drama, but NWA Equality will have its Youth Zone at the Town Center, which has placed no restrictions on youth involvement. (KNWA/KFTA) The Walton Arts Center confirms on May 23 the resignation of three more members of its board of directors following a decision regarding its policy on drag performance. NWA Equality vets all vendors, volunteers and chaperones with background checks and training, according to the statement. Calendar of Events. FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. Excellent. NWA Equality said in a statement Friday the youth zone has separate areas for different age groups. Those decision-makers know a political hot potato when they see one. Six members are appointed by the city, six are appointed by the University of Arkansas and 11 are appointed by the Walton Family Foundation. The statement also mentioned concern over a policy to not allow parents, guardians and caregivers into the Youth Zone, though NWA Equality refuted such a policy in their own statement. 479.443.5600. Why is one senator blocking military promotions? The Walton Arts Center board has 22 members, according to the city's website. Walton Arts Center responds to drag performance controversy with statement The Walton Arts Center said it had concerns over safety with hosting drag performances for minors because of divisive and dangerous national political rhetoric, although it recognized safety is a concern NWA Equality and the community it serves "regrettably have to deal with on a daily basis.". Hanna said that she was finally excited to work at a company that cared about the queer community. Three of the other members who resigned are (from second left) Anne O'Leary Kelly, Mervin Jebaraj and Shabana Kauser. Official site of Walton Arts Center. Seven board members resign amid Walton Arts Center decision to decline Say you know nothing about drag shows without saying you know nothing about drag shows. Hamaker said Friday the members were, "compelled by our consciences to make this decision." To some, this made her a raider of New York's cultural heritage, while to others she was just a savvy, enormously wealthy collector. The city appoints six members, the University of Arkansas appoints another six members and the remaining 11 members are appointed by the Walton Family Foundation. Seven Walton Arts Center board members resign amid drag controversy The WAC said Kauser is . NWA Equality in a news release said parents and guardians are invited to attend the festival's youth zone together. The art world is of two minds about Alice Walton. On Friday, the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reported that the Walton Arts Center board never held a vote to restrict the performances. (KNWA/KFTA) The Walton Arts Center released a statement on May 18 responding to the controversy caused after it decided to not FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. The board was unable to fully acknowledge, apologize for, or attempt to make amends for the organizations role in this situation. It is the gateway between Honshu and Kyushu, as well as an important port for international trade. Walton Arts Center FAYETTEVILLE -- A ninth member of the Walton Arts Center board has resigned. This document may not be reprinted without the express written permission of Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Inc. Material from the Associated Press is Copyright 2023, Associated Press and may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. , president and CEO at Walton Arts Center, relayed the news to him. Sarah Huckabee Sanders also signed a law to allow a person injured by a "gender transition procedure" as a minor to sue the medical professional who performed the procedure. Seven Walton Arts Center board members resign amid drag controversy. Walton Arts Center responds to drag performance controversy with statement. Download the 5NEWS app on your smartphone: Stream 5NEWS 24/7 on the 5+ app: How to watch the 5+ app on your streaming device. Northwest Arkansas Equality, the nonprofit group that organizes the Northwest Arkansas Pride Festival and Parade, on May 10 released a statement saying it would move the event's youth zone to the Fayetteville Town Center, and no Pride events would happen at the Walton Arts Center this year. J:COMFacebook20234J:COM That has long included the Walton Arts Center, the performing arts venue that's been at the heart of the city, on Dickson Street, since 1992.
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