Last night at the Lafayette City Parish Council meeting members were presented with a resolution by member William Theriot that would state their opposition of Drag Queen Story Time at the Lafayette Public Library.

A resolution does not carry the weight of law.

Three council members, William Theriot, Jared Bellard and Nanette Cook, voted to support the resolution opposing the event.

The other six council members abstained from voting.

Today Lafayette City Parish Council District One member Kevin N'aquin explained why he decided to abstain from last night's vote. He posted the following to his Facebook page:

In regards to my vote to abstain at last nights council meeting on the Resolution about Drag Queen Story Time at Library.

My thoughts are before you start judging me or calling me a coward. Let me tell you my thoughts. Then you can say what you want about this. You may also call me to discuss.

I know deep down and understand that it’s not at all appropriate for kids 3/6 years old. I agree, However I feel morally it’s not government to judge nor myself to judge people... so I simply say that it should fall on us, as Parents to make those decisions If they fill it’s appropriate for there kids or not. You don't have to participate.

I simply will not participate by not sending my kids there!!!

I did not Approve nor was this a law to cancel or take down this issue. It was a resolution that meant nothing. I abstain with the hopes to get more legal information and find a more appropriate way of handing this. I am meeting with the Library Board of Control to discuss why they have not weighed in on this issue. I strongly feel as appointees and Board Members for Library that it is important that they address this issue by discussing there intentions. The director should not just make decisions without board approval. That’s why there appointed. Again LCG and Council at this point has no legal authority to cancel or remove programs. As chairman, I issued my statement in regards to this matter.

My morals and my heart feels that even if I disagree with the program its not me or anyone to pass judgement.. that is for a higher power.

I teach my children that you don’t have to like them, agree with them, or participate, dress like them, or act like them. But they are human beings and have the same rights as us. However, they should be respected! Treat and respect others how you want to be treated.

I can assure you it’s not being swept under the rug. I also knew that in 7 years on the council I never abstained before. I just felt that i needed more information before making this decision. There was new info that came up and I was not prepared to make a position at that time. I know that I was not voting NO, because I don’t think it’s appropriate. But I also was not trying to let me personal opinions decide my vote. I prefer to get a better understanding of this situation. I prefer to handle things respectfully rather than making a knee jerk.

Sorry if I disappointed anybody! At least you know where I am coming from. Praying hard that this can be resolved without harm to our community.

Thanks again for your time!
Hope you understand my position.

Thanks,

Kevin Naquin

Councilman Naquin says he wants to gather more information about the issue.

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