Students and faculty alike might have flashbacks of their high school years - but with a unique twist - when Queer Prom takes over Walter Hall Rotunda Saturday evening.
Queer Prom is a chance for lesbian
gay bisexual transgender - LGBT - students to have the chance to take a same-sex date to prom
said Malinda Handy, prom committee chair for ALLY, a group that focuses on equal rights for minorities, particularly for LGBT individuals, and the organization sponsoring the prom. For the most part
it's like a normal dance
she said.
The occasion provides an opportunity for same-sex couples to re-experience the king of all teenage dances, the high school prom. Queer Prom, which lasts from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., has the theme of Tying the Knot. The motif is a reference to the recent legalization of same-sex unions in Britain.
We really wanted to show how we are behind when a country across the ocean is making progress and we aren't
said Will Wemer, vice president of ALLY.
In accordance with the theme, the free event will offer fake wedding rings, ceremonies and marriage certificates for participants. Queer Prom, in its third year at Ohio University, will showcase '80s hits as well as current popular music, light refreshments, the crowning of a king and queen and a special presentation: a drag show.
The drag show was a last-minute collaboration with the Federation of United Queers
and it really is going to bring some excitement to the prom at about the midway point of the night
Wemer said.
Expecting about 200 people, Handy said she hopes Queer Prom is a fun experience that still sends a social message.
We're supporting a part of the community that doesn't always get support
she said. Maybe this will let people do something they only dreamed about doing in high school.
The attire for the evening is semi-formal to formal.
