In a crucial test of free speech, a South Florida drag artist and activist has been vindicated. Shannon Atkins, best known as Big Mama, has been acquitted by a Palm Beach jury.
Shortly before Donald Trump’s inauguration in January 2025, Atkins posted social media posts which listed Lincoln, MLK, Reagan, and Trump and that “unfortunately one is still alive.” Another allegedly says, “Bullets, please. Jesus save America,” while another reads, “I’ve been banned from X [formerly Twitter] because I said I hope and pray someone kills him. We haven’t had an assassination in years.”
A social media troll sent the comments to law enforcement. Atkins was originally arrested during a traffic stop when police say they found a small amount of cocaine.
He was found not guilty of written or electronic threats to kill or do bodily injury.
Atkins says he was joking and it’s protected free speech, and a jury agreed. Many in the community say he is a victim of political intimidation, accusations that, given the authoritarian actions of the administration, become more believable every day.
Atkins is still facing the drug charge, and a plea deal is in the works.
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