TakingITGlobal

44 # R I S I N G Y O U T H C O M M U N I T Y I M P A C T Prom is a quintessential experience of high school, but many queer youth are unable to attend. Traditional high school proms often expect plus-ones to be of the opposite gender, have attendees that are unsupportive of the LGBTQ2+ community, or are simply inaccessible due to costs. #RisingYouth grantee Illiyeen Jameel endeavoured to change this by organizing a Queer Prom at the South Surrey/ White Rock Youth Space. For over three hours, over 80 LGBTQ2+ youth danced the night away in a transformed, underwater version of the Space, complete with palm trees, sharks, and schools of fish. The event featured a DJ and dancing, games and activities with prizes, food, and a photo booth. Queer Prom also provided a quiet area with colouring books and a button-maker where introverts or those that need a break can chat and relax. The entire event was completely accessible to people of all identities and absolutely free! " At Queer Prom, youth were able to spend time with their significant others without fear of ostracization. For transgender youth, it was an opportunity to dress and present themselves as their preferred gender, often for the first time. The Youth Space is a safe space for youth to explore their identities and dress however they like, without needing to fear judgement." ILLIYEEN JAMEEL Queer Prom Illiyeen Jameel | $750 Surrey, British Columbia BRITISH COLUMBIA Surrey is located on Coast Salish (Kwantlen, Katzie, Semiahmoo, Tsawwassen First Nation) territory. LEARN MORE AT WWW.WHOSE.LAND

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