Protesters clash outside the Drag Story Hour at the New York Library
Angry fights erupted at a Drag Story Hour event in Queens on Thursday as protesters, including a neo-Nazi filmed saluting Heil Hitler, gathered outside a public library.
Dozens of police tried to separate dueling protesters during the wild scene outside the building in Jackson Heights. It was not immediately clear if any arrests had been made.
At one point, cops appeared to arrest a man who was barefoot and wearing ripped pants. The protester attempted to kick an officer while calling him a « pig » who « wears shoes ».
Other videos showed protesters arriving holding a Proud Boys flag and shouting « Leave the kids alone! » among supporters of the event.
A clip showed officers leading away a hooded and masked neo-Nazi who gave the middle finger – then gave a Sieg Heil salute while calling for a « future for white children ».
Cops had split camps on either side of the street, with a heavy contingency supporting the event waving rainbow-colored flags and umbrellas, chanting and holding signs like « Queens [hearts] queens.
On the other side, anti-event protesters held up signs accusing event officials of « confusing the children ».
« You are mean and disgusting pedophiles – all of you! » a man spat while leaning on a police barricade.
The NYPD confirmed that arrests had been made, but immediately counted the number.
The event was funded by Jackson Heights council member Shekar Krishnan, who said Wednesday he was « proud to support » Drag Story Hour « and the literacy, love and joy it promotes in our libraries! »
Some demonstrators were taken away by the police.
Opposition demonstrators had been separated by barricades.
Publicity
There were bouts of violence outside the library on Thursday at the time of the event.
Publicity
He was joined by Board Chair Adrienne Adams and two other Board members in issue a statement Thursday condemning the « despicable and disgusting » protests against the events as well as the politicians who support them.
« Hate in all its pernicious forms » has « no place in our city and must be condemned, » the statement said.
« We stand with New Yorkers who gather today in Jackson Heights to confront the hate and stand up for families who read with their children. »
The group noted that « this City Council is proud to support children’s programs that promote inclusion, literacy and joy. »
The Jackson Heights Library advertised the event as « a celebration of gender diversity, providing kids with unapologetic queer role models and the confidence to express themselves the way they feel comfortable. » It was to feature « an amazing drag performer reading picture books, singing songs, and leading kids through a craft activity. »
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