For many LGBTQIA+ students, the traditional high school prom was an experience defined by discomfort, exclusion or absence altogether. 

Oakland University’s annual Pride Prom offers something different, a queer-and gender-affirming space centered on choice, safety and celebration.

The 11th annual Pride Prom invited students to dance, play games and connect in an environment where showing up authentically is encouraged rather than questioned. 

Attendees were welcomed whether they arrived with a partner, friends or on their own, emphasizing that participation came without expectation.

Hosted by the OU Gender and Sexuality Center, Pride Prom serves as an alternative to traditional prom spaces, which have not always been welcoming to LGBTQIA+ students. 

The event prioritizes accessibility and community, creating a low-pressure environment where self-expression is not only accepted but celebrated.

Kieran Montgomery, a graduate assistant at the Gender and Sexuality Center, Pride Prom represents something many queer students never had the chance to experience the first time around.

“It’s kind of like a redo,” Montgomery said. “A lot of us didn’t have that experience, and I’m definitely one of those individuals.”

Montgomery said Pride Prom provides an opportunity to dress and present authentically while being surrounded by people who offer care and understanding. 

Beyond the aesthetics of the night, Montgomery emphasized the emotional importance of being in a space where judgment is absent and connection is possible.

“Nobody in that space is going to shame you for how you show up,” Montgomery said. “As long as you’re connecting with people, you’re going to have a good time. You’ll find your people.”

Sid Missouri, an attendee, said Pride Prom offers a level of comfort and freedom that was missing from their own prom experience.

“At my prom, I was the only feminine person wearing a suit,” Missouri said. “It was really weird getting pointed at. Here, I get to wear whatever I want.”

Missouri said having a queer-affirming space allowed them to feel safer and more open, especially for students who may not have affirming families or social circles outside of campus.

“Prom is such a big deal,” Missouri said. “It’s nice to have an event where you can really be yourself. Life’s too short not to.”

Hudson Foraker, an attendee, said that Pride Prom didn’t need to be extravagant or extraordinary to be meaningful, simply being able to participate in a space where everyone could be themselves made the experience truly special.

“It just feels nice,” Foraker said.

Foraker noted that the familiar structure of Pride Prom made it approachable for students who might be unsure about attending.

“If you liked prom before, you’ll probably like this,” Foraker said. “There’s really no difference in the format, it’s just a different space.”

Whether attendees came seeking a second chance, a stronger sense of safety or simply a good night spent with friends, Pride Prom offered an environment defined by acceptance rather than expectation. 

For many students, that freedom, to show up exactly as they are, without judgment, is what makes the event feel most meaningful and memorable.