A prominent part of the evening, as with similar events, was dancing. Once these formalities were complete, teens were left to enjoy the festivities. After stepping into the rainbow-decorated facility, they checked in & received commemorative wrist bands. Upon arriving at the event, attendees began the evening with formal pictures outside. The prom took place at Stable Studios, an event venue in Owen County. Hellman stated that the second purpose of the event was to provide an opportunity for teens from different regional groups to meet & form new friendships. “This gave them an opportunity to have that experience.” Spencer Pride’s Youth Empowerment Lead Joy Hellman explained the two reasons why having this event was important for the youth: “LGBTQ+ youth often do not feel comfortable attending their high school prom while being their authentic self,” Joy described. More than 100 teens registered for the event, representing 6 youth groups from communities from throughout south-central Indiana, including Spencer, Ellettsville, Bloomington, Martinsville, & Columbus. Iris Youth Group, a program of Spencer Pride, held an alternative prom for LGBTQ+ youth & allies on Saturday, May 4 th.
