The San Mateo Union High School District held their first annual pride prom on April 14. The event was hosted by the SMUHSD, the College of San Mateo and Coast Pride.
The Pride Prom was hosted to continue encouraging the creation of safe spaces free from discrimination and hate for LGBTQ+ students.
“I really wanted to create a space where students could come and celebrate themselves,” said Holly Wade, one of the main organizers of the event and Director of Special Education at SMUHSD. “I think we accomplished that. We [had] a lot of students [there] who [were] really excited to be with their friends and connect and be who they [wanted] to be.”
Many recognized the importance of creating this space.
I think there were a lot of students and teachers who felt like the LGBTQ+ community needed a space where they could celebrate with people who were like themselves
“I think there were a lot of students and teachers who felt like the LGBTQ+ community needed a space where they could celebrate with people who were like themselves,” said volunteer chaperone Matthew Shea. “I think it’s very unique and special that our students have this opportunity.”
The Pride Prom was held at and catered by the College of San Mateo, and was free to SMUHSD students. This event gave kids of all sexualities and gender identities a chance to express themselves in a way they may not have been able to at their high school prom.
“[I was] really excited [that] the dress code [was] really casual,” said senior and Gender and Sexuality Awareness club president Angel Luz. “The outfits were extremely diverse, from super casual to super dressed up. We even had drag outfits. [It seemed] really fun, like we’re hanging out with friends and less pressured to look super nice or be a certain way.”
Many of the volunteers were happy that kids were able to have this opportunity to express themselves.
“[My favorite part of the Pride Prom was] the energy of the students that [were there] and the way that everyone [was] allowed to express themselves, be themselves, and just have a good time,” said volunteer chaperone Jason Owens.
Some of the chaperones were glad that kids had an event like this, as there was no event like the Pride Prom during their high school careers.
“[I like] the fact that kids have a place to go and be comfortable,” said volunteer chaperone Zach Pfeffer. “I didn’t have this at my high school, and I knew there were a lot of kids at my high school that didn’t have an opportunity to have something like this. I don’t know if we’re turning a corner, but I just want more of this, and I can’t wait to come next year.”
I don’t know if we’re turning a corner, but I just want more of this, and I can’t wait to come next year
The Pride Prom included dancing, food, drinks and a silent disco. The silent disco provided attendees with the opportunity to listen to a different type of music in case the music the DJ was playing did not suit them. Instead of using a speaker, the silent disco provided headphones, which were connected to three different music channels.
Many students had positive feedback for the Pride Prom, appreciating the chance to hang out with friends and express themselves.
“I thought it was a lovely, one-of-a-kind event that celebrated the queer community in such an amazing way,” said freshman Brody Friedeberg. “It was so much fun. My favorite part was the dancing, because it felt like a school dance but more welcoming, comfortable and dedicated. The freedom in the dance and dress code created a lively atmosphere with attendees being able to express their personalities however they wanted, which I greatly appreciated.”
Others look forward to continuing the event in the future.
“I loved it so much and I’m going to join the planning committee next year,” said freshman Nyla Garrick. “My favorite part was getting to take pictures with my friends at the photo booth and also getting free bags to take home.”
Many hope to make the Pride Prom a tradition for future SMUHSD students.
“Honestly, it was one of the best dances I’ve been to and I really hope the event continues to become a tradition and grow in the future,” Luz said. “I met friends of all ages from schools all over the district including Burlingame and Half Moon Bay.”
