Dupage Policy Journal

Awake Illinois, a non-profit organization founded by parents, has accused Representative Sean Casten of labeling parents as "bigots" in 2022 for opposing drag shows for minors. This accusation comes as the LaSalle Public Library announces a Drag Queen Storytime event featuring JJ Adonis, a drag performer, scheduled for June 25 as part of its Pride Month celebrations. The library's announcement invites everyone to join the event for "stories, laughter, and fun."

"Remember @RepCasten said WE were bigots for rejecting drag shows for minors," said Illinois. "Us too. He still hasn't apologized for wrongly accusing us of threats. Most of you were oblivious but this agenda has been rampant for years. Wake up."

According to Awake Illinois, the group expressed strong opposition in October 2022 to a planned drag queen bingo event for minors at the Downers Grove Public Library. They described it as an example of sexualized entertainment being promoted to children in taxpayer-funded spaces. Shannon Adcock, founder and president of Awake Illinois, said: "Why would a caricature [drag queen] of the gay community be considered a best practice? Just leave the kids alone." She implored public entities or individuals entrusted with children not to use the term 'inclusivity' to project personal ideologies.

Awake IL's post on X | X

After the cancellation of the Downers Grove event, Casten expressed disappointment in a press release. He said: "I’m incredibly disheartened to hear that the Downers Grove Public Library is canceling their upcoming event — one meant to celebrate self-identity and self-expression — because Keith Pekau and Awake Illinois created an unsafe environment in our community." He further criticized them for promoting "hatred, homophobia, and bigotry."

Awake Illinois was established in May 2021 by parents and citizens with a mission to protect individual liberties and parental rights. Based in Naperville, it has grown to over 30 county-based chapters across Illinois, focusing on issues such as education policy, civic engagement, and social causes.