An angry brawl erupted Thursday at Drag Story Hour in Queens when protesters, including neo-Nazis filming a Heil Hitler salute, gathered outside the public library.
Dozens of police officers tried to separate protesters in a wild scene outside a building in Jackson Heights. It was not immediately clear whether any arrests had been made.
At one point, the police arrested a man who was barefoot and wearing torn pants. The protester tried to kick the officer, calling him a “pig in shoes”.
Other videos show protesters holding a Proud Boys flag and chanting, “Leave the boys alone!” is shown shouting. in front of the supporters of the event.
One clip shows officers escorting a hooded, masked neo-Nazi, who gives him the middle finger – then calls for a “white children’s future” and gives the Sieg Heil salute.
Policemen lined the streets, chanting and waving rainbow-colored flags and umbrellas loudly in support of the event, and holding up signs like “Queens.” [hearts] queens.”
On the other hand, protesters against the event carried signs accusing those behind the event of “confounding children”.
“You are vile, disgusting pedophiles – every one of you!” a man leaned against a police barricade and spat.
The NYPD confirmed the arrests but did not immediately release the number.
The event was sponsored by Jackson Heights Councilman Shekar Krishnan, who said Wednesday that “Proud to support” Drag Story Hour “and the literacy, love and joy it promotes in our libraries!”
Some protesters were taken away by the police.
Violence broke out outside the library while the event was taking place on Thursday.
Counter-protesters were separated by barricades.
He was joined by council speaker Adrienne Adams and two other council members make a statement Thursday condemned the “vile and despicable” protests against the events and the politicians who support them.
“Hate in all its harmful forms” “has no place in our city and must be condemned,” the statement said.
“We stand with New Yorkers today in Jackson Heights to stand up to hate and protect families who read books with their children.”
“This City Council is proud to support children’s programs that promote inclusion, literacy and joy,” the group said.
The Jackson Heights library billed the event as “a celebration of gender diversity that offers children queer role models and the confidence to feel comfortable.” It features “an amazing drag artist who reads picture books, sings songs, and engages children in crafts.”
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