By Gabriela Baron
For the members of the LGBTQIA+ community, a second chance at the one of the most anticipated events in their high school life–prom–where they are finally able to express their true selves are one for the books.
Initiated by non-profit organization Queer Safe Spaces, “Queer Prom” aimed to provide “a second chance and a safe space” for queer individuals.
“‘Yung importance nito for the LGTBQIA+ community, for some, for straight, parang ang small lang nito or parang maliit na bagay, pero for the queer community, sobrang big deal niya,” Roanne Carreon told PTV Digital.
“Kasi wala naman kaming opportunity back then na isayaw ‘yung gusto naming isayaw or isuot ‘yung kung ano ‘yung gusto naming isuot na damit,” Carreon, a gender rights advocate and content creator, continued.
Carreon said they hope to bring the Queer Prom next year outside Metro Manila.
“Gusto natin next year na lumabas tayo sa Metro Manila na hindi lang concentrated lahat ng Pride-related events dito sa Metro Manila dahil marami tayong miyembro na nasa Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao,” she added.
A safe space
For Dianne, one of the attendees, she said she felt safe to showcase her authentic self during the whole event,
“Sobrang happy ako na may ganitong event na more queer women ‘yung nandito and very safe talaga ‘yung feeling… I think safest place I’ve even been into na Pride-related,” she added.
Meanwhile, Renz, a trans man, underscored the importance of the event for those who are now out and even those who are closeted, as he believes Queer Prom is a “safe space for everyone,” regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.
“Isa po itong safe space para ma-express namin ang aming mga sarili na dati ay hindi namin na-express,” he added.
He also called for the passage of the SOGIESC Equality Bill which has been pending in the Congress for over two decades.
