MEASURES

the fairgrounds where PrideFest takes place, asking them to place age restrictions at PrideFest.

In May, Douglas County commissioners updated the fairgrounds policy in response to the backlash against PrideFest to prohibit “anything similar” to sexually oriented businesses during events.

Organizers from Douglas County PrideFest have said last year’s incident was an accident and they have since put in safeguards to ensure the event is family friendly. A board member for PrideFest spoke at the council meeting, noting drag is not inherently sexual.

“By attempting to categorize drag as adult entertainment, the town undermines the artistry and cultural signi cance of this vibrant and inclusive art form,” they said. “We must stand rmly against such attempts to sti e creativity and limit the diversity of cultural expression.” e motion failed 5-2, with Dietz and council member Laura Cavey voting in favor of the letter. Dietz then motioned to continue the discussion about age restrictions on June 20, which failed 4-3, with Dietz, Cavey and council member Max Brooks voting in favor.

Castle Rock’s attorney Michael Hyman cautioned the board that targeting one event could be unconstitutional.

“I think it would be very di cult to enforce a discriminatory direction such as this without something more that indicates a need to have an agerestricted event,” Hyman said.

Council member Desiree LaFleur, who teared up during her comments, said not only would restricting PrideFest be an infringement on free speech, it didn’t “feel right.”

“If you don’t want to go to their event, then don’t buy tickets and