Pride Alliance, in hopes of creating a fun and relaxing event to which students could bring their date of choice, hosted their annual Second Chance prom at the KnightSpot last Saturday.
Pride Alliance Vice President Sharon Fox described the prom as "a safe space to be yourself." According to Fox, the event was inspired by several students who were not open about their sexuality in high school and felt uncomfortable attending proms.
The event had a great turnout with students crowding the dance floor. Participants responded positively to the event.
"This school needs more dances so it was nice to just come here, dance and have a good time," said sophomore Loren Merchan.
"Second chance" carried with it the essence of any other special prom night. Students danced in their formal attire to mainstream pop music, CAS provided refreshments and a disco ball.
The event differed from traditional high school proms, however, in its overall message.
"The goal of this event was to de-stigmatize the community about norms and beliefs surrounding prom," said Kai Davies, president of Pride Alliance. "Coming here, you can feel secure with yourself and experience the same event as everyone else."
Davies added that the prom was meant as a mixer for the entire Geneseo campus. "You don't have to be gay to come," she said. "Everyone is welcome to attend and have a good time."
Aside from this event, Pride Alliance runs a "Gay? Fine by me," campaign along with a drag ball fundraiser in the spring. The organization meets every Tuesday at 8 p.m. in the Union, Room 319. For more information about Pride Alliance and their upcoming events, visit their Web site at geneseo.edu/~pride.