Controversy over honoring drag activist Sister Roma at California Capitol during Pride Month

Republicans in the California state Senate objected to the honoring of drag activist Sister Roma during an annual LGBTQ+ Pride Month ceremony, citing her association with the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, a group they see as mocking the Catholic religion. Despite the criticism, Roma was welcomed with a standing ovation in both the Assembly and Senate, even while some Republicans walked off the floors in protest as she was recognized. The queer service group is one of California’s oldest LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations and has since expanded around the globe.