Naples City Council voted unanimously to appeal a federal judge’s ruling allowing drag performances at this year’s Pride Fest during a closed-door executive session Friday. As of Monday, the U.S. District Court in Fort Myers confirmed that no paperwork has been submitted, and no appeal has been filed.
The city of Naples refused to comment on "active litigation."
“They need to get it. Yesterday is a good time. The day before yesterday seemed better," said Mike Carr, a former Collier County judge and current attorney.
The appeal stems from a lawsuit and request for a preliminary injunction against the city of Naples via Naples Pride. The nonprofit alleges that moving the drag show indoors in 2023 and 2024 was a violation of the First Amendment. Naples Pride also argues that a larger security cost has been mandated to "price out" the group.
A federal judge agreed earlier this month, granting a preliminary injunction that allows the June 7 event to return to its original location and format, including drag performers.
“The deadline is a lot fast than courts normally work,” said Carr.
Carr tells Gulf Coast News that the city of Naples will most likely request a "motion to stay," which would freeze the progress of the festival before the upcoming planned date.
“Whatever happens will set a precedent," said Carr.
Meanwhile, Naples Pride says that as of now, planning for the festival, including the outdoor drag show, continues.
Pride Fest is scheduled for June 7 at Cambier Park.
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