New Experiences

Over this weekend I attended GLSEN's LGBTQ Prom. This was a prom for students that didn't feel comfortable going to their school's prom or didn't feel comfortable bringing their date. I was invited by a friend of mine to attend for moral support. I went and it was one of the best times of my life. It made me think about things I had otherwise ignored. The room was filled with a general understanding of nonjudgement. Everyone was themselves and comfortable being that way. It was a new way of thinking and it felt like a pressure had been lifted. There were no rules to conform to and everyone felt at ease with the people around them.
I experienced things I would never have the chance to experience without this opportunity. There was a stage with performances by drag queens. I have never seen a drag queen in my life, but they walked around in their characters completely happy and confident. There were many performers and it was hard not to be amazed by their talent in makeup and dancing.
There was a wall filled with letters written by guests at the prom. Every piece of paper contained something heartfelt or funny. Each one came from a special place in people's heart. It was obvious how many people came to this event because their life at home or in their own school wasn't accepting as this event was. People poured their heart into pieces of paper that were simply torn down at the end of the night.
The overall feeling of acceptance was what really shocking. There was no way to judge others because everyone was there to support each other and find a place where they feel comfortable. It is difficult to look at someone and think negative things in such a positive. uplifting space.
I want to thank GLSEN for not only creating an event that helped give people that are often left out and overlooked a place to feel comfortable but for taking such huge steps to uplift queer and minority groups.