Sumner Bonney Lake School District Faces Backlash Over Pride Event at Donald Iseman

In a recent Sumner-Bonney Lake School Board meeting, community members expressed strong concerns regarding a pride event held at Donald Iseman Elementary School on July 26, 2025. The event featured a drag show and activities aimed at children, which sparked a heated debate about appropriateness and the school district's role in such events.

The meeting began with a parent raising alarms about the nature of the pride event, questioning whether the school district had adequately reviewed the activities planned. The parent highlighted specific performances, including a drag show titled "Trasosaurus Rex," and expressed worries about the involvement of young children in an environment that included suggestive performances. They sought clarification on how the event aligned with the district's mission to support students.

In response, Abby White, the executive director of Hope Development Practices, which organized the event, defended the inclusion of drag performances as a historical and cultural expression within the LGBTQ community. White acknowledged the inappropriate photos taken during the event, asserting that they were captured without consent and were intended to provoke negative reactions against the LGBTQ community. She emphasized the organization's commitment to ensuring safety and support for performers and attendees.

The meeting also featured comments from other community members, some of whom echoed the initial parent's concerns, labeling the event as inappropriate for children. They argued that the presence of drag performers and the nature of the activities constituted a form of grooming, calling for the school board to reconsider its policies regarding facility rentals for events that may not align with community values.

In contrast, supporters of the event highlighted the importance of inclusivity and representation for LGBTQ individuals, arguing that such events foster understanding and acceptance among young people. They stressed the need for safe spaces where diverse identities can be celebrated.

The discussions at the meeting reflect a broader societal debate about the role of schools in hosting events that address LGBTQ issues and the balance between inclusivity and community standards. As the school board considers these concerns, the implications for future events and the district's policies on facility use remain to be seen. The board's response to these discussions will likely shape the community's perception of its commitment to both inclusivity and the safeguarding of children in educational environments.