On Tuesday, ADR MP Tom Weidig and artist Tom Hecker, known for his drag persona Tatta Tom (or Aunt Tom), clashed on the radio in a debate over the latter’s educational readings in schools.

It was a face-to-face segment that was bound to become very interesting right from the very start. A little background:

Tom Hecker, the man behind Tatta Tom (or Aunt Tom), aims to promote values like tolerance and friendship through his performances. His blue hair, rainbow make-up, colourful clothes and deer antlers are a hit with some, but cause anger in others.

Following a reading session at the library in Esch-sur-Alzette in July of 2023, former ADR candidate Tom Weidig had triggered a blaze of hate speech towards Tatta Tom on social media. Hecker's readings, often held in schools, are designed to be educational and entertaining. However, Weidig contends that while he has no inherent issue with drag queens, Tatta Tom reinforces stereotypes and may not be suitable for children. He argues that such readings compromise the neutrality of public institutions like schools and libraries. The two met for an RTL discussion on Tuesday.

Hecker refutes these criticisms, stating that Tatta Tom is a deliberately exaggerated fairy tale character, which makes the stories more vibrant and engaging for children.

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Weidig clarified that he does not believe such readings influence sexual orientation, which he says is neurobiologically determined. However, he expressed concern over what he describes as a near "pandemic" of transsexuality, suggesting that increased openness might lead to confusion among young people, particularly girls, who might prematurely pursue hormone therapy or surgery. Hecker countered that greater openness helps individuals understand and accept their identities.

Weidig’s social media posts criticising Tatta Tom's performances have sparked considerable backlash, including hateful comments and death threats directed at Hecker. Weidig condemned personal attacks, insisting that discussions should remain factual. He acknowledged that his posts might have triggered strong reactions but attributed this to widespread dissatisfaction with what he termed the "constant struggle with LGBTQ ideology."

During the debate, Weidig also criticised Tom Delles, director of the Lycée Technique Agricole, for defending the school’s decision to invite Tatta Tom. Delles asserted that awareness-raising efforts are part of the school's mission and accused Weidig of inciting hatred without understanding the issue. Weidig interpreted Delles’ comments as a personal attack, though Delles did not explicitly call Weidig a "bad person."