04/30/2026
Thank you to those who have been patient with their judgement, and vulnerable in their stories. The following is a joint statement from myself, Lucifer Jest, Melody Mischief, Dame Denna Desire, and Eden Draconis.
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Two weeks ago, a public post brought forward concerns about experiences within parts of our extended community here in Des Moines. In the days since, additional conversations have taken place publicly and privately, raising both specific allegations and broader concerns about community culture.
In response, we gathered information and spoke with individuals who chose to share their experiences with us. Our priority throughout has been to support those individuals while respecting their boundaries, including the wishes of those who did not want their experiences made public or revisited in detail.
What follows reflects concerns that were shared with us. This is not a legal determination of wrongdoing, but it is the basis for the decisions we are making as producers and community members.
We received multiple reports alleging violations of consent, misuse of power dynamics, and behavior described by those who came forward as coercive or manipulative. At the request of those individuals, we are limiting the level of detail we share here.
The two individuals connected to these reports have stepped away from the community amid recent public discussion. Independently of that decision, we are formalizing that they are not welcome to participate in our productions or community spaces going forward. We will not work with them in any capacity.
In addition, we received reports raising concerns about participant safety at a local B**M venue that has previously intersected with our community. While we are not in a position to independently verify these reports, we encourage producers and performers to exercise due diligence, seek input from trusted peers, and prioritize safety when selecting spaces to work in.
We are also aware of concerns raised in adjacent performance communities. We encourage leaders in those spaces to take reports seriously and to pursue accountability in ways that are appropriate for their communities.
Beyond these specific situations, many people shared broader concerns about patterns within our community, including:
- Discrimination and lack of diversity in casting
- Favoritism in casting
- Perceived pay-to-play structures
- Reintroduction of individuals previously removed for safety concerns
- Blurred lines between personal and professional relationships
- Ostracism and bullying
A consistent theme across these concerns is the lack of clear, safe reporting pathways, shared expectations, and transparent accountability practices.
Moving forward, we are taking the following actions:
- We will not work with the two individuals connected to these reports or host them in our productions or events.
- We will not hold events in spaces where we have unresolved safety concerns.
- We are implementing clear codes of conduct and reporting pathways for our productions.
- We are engaging with leaders in other communities and disciplines to learn from established practices and improve our own systems.
We recognize that accountability is an ongoing process, not a single statement. We are committed to continuing this work in a way that prioritizes safety, respects individual boundaries, and supports a healthier, more transparent community.
♥️
