Nothing says queer celebration like dancing! On June 27, GenTex held their free-to-attend Pride Prom, with this year’s theme being Post-Apocalyptic Angels, an apt motif for the night since, in one of the organizers’ words, “That’s kind of where we’re at.” The Prom, with its celebratory basis, evoked a fitting sense of both divine and dark perseverance. It was also an opportunity to donate needed items to Casa Kimberly, a trans and queer-oriented shelter dedicated to giving young people finding themselves a soft place to land if their loved one or guardian disapproves to a drastic degree.
The concept of a queer prom has existed since the nineties and was popularized by growing public advocacy throughout the 2010’s. When asked about its importance, GenTex board member Jada Jossete stated that while liberation has come a long way, the current state of politics and social climate is harming the community. Citing the aids epidemic, Jossete expressed that queer joy is an important facet of both resistance and remembrance. Furthermore, she explained that the groups gathering and organizing for the community are what keep said community sane, rather than panicked.
Drinking and Dancing at Pecado Nightclub
The event was held at Pecado Nightclub in McAllen, a venue with both an indoor and outdoor space. While Pride Prom mainly took place outside, the inside carried a photo station and mini history exhibit for attendees. Outside, several artisans also showed up in support, selling their wares in all forms from art to mystic paraphernalia.
Less esoteric shops included Tigerly, Camba Cat, and Breathing Storm, selling prints, stickers, keychains, and other fruits of their creativity and labor. On the more metaphysical side, The Druid’s Fancy and Obscura Holistic Therapy offered handmade trinkets, jewelry, and card readings, respectively. The Intersectional Feminist Student Organization was also in attendance, providing information and reproductive health resources. Prizes were also raffled out throughout the night, including jewelry handcrafted by The High Priestess, which yours truly was fortunate enough to win. Of course, a mention of the bartenders is deserved, as is Golden Mirror Fortunes, who opened the show’s emceeing, both of which kept spirits lifted.
Bands and Performers from Prom Night
The mood was kept animated by DJs Justice Sin Fronteras and Mexican Boyfriend, who played beats before performances started. The Pride Prom also boasted live performances by Jamie in Disgrace and Fantasma Digital, with the standout number being a cover of The Cure’s “Just Like Heaven”. All of this preceded the climax of the entertainment: a Drag Show featuring performers from different eras, styles, and identities.
Raspberry Crocker opened the show with a rendition of Queen’s “We Are The Champions,” setting the previously mentioned mood of perseverance. They were followed by Valerie Paris and Takisha Mor’e, who served classic glamour numbers. Dorian Derlaverlie and Ace of Spades came next, providing sensual and graceful masculinity, respectively. Last but not least, Black Dahlia Deville closed the show out in resplendent feline garb.
What GenTex Had to Say
This event was made possible by groups that spend their day-to-day lives fighting for equality and liberation. Josette mentioned starting with GenTex through group meetings that gave her experience in organizing. Consider donating clothes, food, cleaning supplies, bedding, hygiene products, or even just a few dollars.
Contact Casa Kimberly for information on what’s needed and drop-off availability. If donating food, please bring non-perishable items. Josette also mentioned the South Texas Equality Project and South Texas Reproductive Justice as two teams that deserve recognition for their work in similar spheres.
