The New Art Center in Newton faced a serious threat on June 9, just moments before a scheduled drag queen story hour event, a public and free program aimed at celebrating Pride month. According to the center’s executive director, Emily O’Neil, a bomb threat was received via a message indicating explosives were placed on the building’s roof. The threat ominously stated that the building would “go boom” at 11 a.m., precisely the time the story hour event was set to begin.
Despite the alarming nature of the threat, which marked the first bomb threat in the center’s 47-year history, staff promptly alerted Newton police. Law enforcement responded swiftly, collaborating with the Newton Fire Department to conduct a thorough search of the premises, ensuring the safety of all attendees and staff. Thankfully, the building was cleared without incident, although the chilling message had already cast a pall over the event.
The New Art Center, known for its commitment to community engagement through diverse and inclusive programming, remained steadfast in its mission. The drag queen story hour, hosted by Missy Steak, proceeded as planned with the presence of Newton police officers providing reassurance. Despite the disruption and fear caused by the threat, approximately 30 families chose to stay and participate, underscoring the resilience and solidarity within the community.
Missy Steak, in a poignant statement included in the center’s communication, expressed a personal commitment to creating spaces of joy, kindness, and inclusivity. For her, as for many involved, the event symbolized more than just a story hour—it embodied a stand against intolerance and a celebration of diversity. The Cultural Access Program at the New Art Center, designed to foster community outreach and inclusivity, exemplified these values by offering free, accessible programs that welcome everyone, regardless of background.
The incident at the New Art Center is representative of a larger pattern in which hate groups and extremists are threatening LGBTQ-focused events. Incidents of disturbances and intimidation directed towards comparable gatherings in several locales highlight the difficulties encountered by communities that aim to embrace and validate LGBTQ identities. Due to the increase in these kinds of incidents, government organizations such as the FBI and Department of Homeland Security have been forced to warn of the possibility that radical groups could target Pride gatherings. This emphasizes the importance of increased security and alertness.
In response to the threat and in solidarity with the LGBTQ community, O’Neil reiterated the center’s stance against hate and its commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment through the power of art. This stance not only reaffirms the center’s values but also serves as a beacon of resilience against attempts to intimidate and spread fear.
The drag queen story hour’s successful continuation in the face of hardship ultimately proves the strength of camaraderie and community. Reaffirming their support for diversity and rejection of intolerance, families and attendees chose to stay and participate. In addition to demonstrating the transforming power of art in bringing people together and promoting social justice, the New Art Center’s unwavering commitment to creating spaces where everyone is welcome is a poignant resistance against intolerance.
