The good news is Naples Pride has been approved by the city. The bad news is council members still insist on a ban of all public performances of drag entertainment.

“For them to vote [Pride] in but with those restrictions, it’s very bizarre,” Eric Swanson said, adding context of Florida’s likely-unconstitutional drag ban moving through the courts. 

The absurdity lies in the application of the drag ban. While sanctioned performances will be inside, much happens outside including people going to the gates. Will eagle-eyed anti-drag agents be waiting to cover them in black shrouds? 

Swanson says the ACLU is asking the same questions. “Where’s the line? Where’s the vagueness? Is it performances you are talking about? What is a prosthetic? It’s very vague.” 

Swanson, who often performs under the stage name Miss Bouvèé, used to live and perform in Naples and continues to advocate for the city’s LGBTQ community. He says getting the permits approved is just the first step and that Prides don’t pay for themselves. 

Insurance and security costs have increased to near-prohibitive levels over the past few years, and affects nearly all large events, not just Prides. Swanson is personally fundraising, with a goal of $15,000. 

“It’s direct donations. I link to NaplesPride.org. When I do Showtunes Tuesday at The Pub I dedicate a couple songs, usually about social justice, and put out my tip bucket and all the money that goes in during that song goes to Naples Pride.” 

Swanson is also personally and professionally offended by the so-called drag bans. “Obviously it’s very disturbing and annoying. It feels like they’re looking at the wrong person.” 

But that said, he says this is not new territory for the drag community. “It’s a cross we voluntarily bear. We’re used to being the most obnoxious, loud, most avant garde looking people in a bar. We’re okay with that. We’ll take the heat so you feel safe marching behind us.” 

Swanson says he needs to meet his $15,000 goal by March 15.

Miss Bouvèé. Courtesy photo.