(Photo via PFLAG Riverview’s FB page)
RIVERVIEW, Fla. | PFLAG Riverview is bringing Wonderland to life with its first ever Pride Prom on June 17, held at The Regent in celebration of LGBTQ youth.
PFLAG Riverview is one of nearly 400 branches of an organization committed to uniting the LGBTQ community and its allies. The organization strives to build resources for support, education and advocacy to people across the nation.
The chapter was recognized at PFLAG National’s 2021 convention “We Are the Change” for exponential growth in its first year last October. It will now innovate in another way this June, celebrating LGBTQ youth as their authentic selves in a safe way at Pride Prom.
“We are super excited to offer a safe space for our LGBTQ+ youth to have a safe space to celebrate all of who they are,” PFLAG Riverview President Faith Moeller says. “It will give them the opportunity to meet new friends and make great memories that will last a lifetime.”
For its inaugural LGBTQ Youth Pride Prom, PFLAG is going all out with the whimsical, over-the-top theme of “Down the Rabbit Hole for A Night in Wonderland.” Guests from 14-20 are welcome to dress in their favorite formal or semiformal attire or wear a look to match the Wonderland whimsy.
Or as Moeller explains, “the dress code is whatever makes you feel fabulous!”
Along with traditional prom festivities like dancing and music led by DJ Greg Anderson, character performances from local performers Brianna Summers, Charlotte Diamond Star and 92 Era Lords will help bring Wonderland to life. Moeller says it’s been a labor of love not just for PFLAG Riverview but from other local organizations and sponsors.
“We have had financial support and a Prom committee with leaders from GLSEN, Metro Inclusive Health, educators and GSA students,” she says. “We also have gracious sponsors like Greg Anderson Events, ABC Event Planning, Breezin Entertainment and Corey’s Bakery. Pride proms are way more fun!”
The prom will take place from 7-11 p.m. Light appetizers and non-alcoholic drinks will be provided and pizza will be delivered by 10 p.m.
“Now more than ever after the past two years our LGBTQ youth need to know that they are not alone,” Moeller says. “Not only are there other people their age on the similar journeys, there are adults who have their backs and will support fight for and celebrate them!”
Tickets can be purchased on the PFLAG Riverview Facebook page for $30 or at the door of the event for $40.
PFLAG Riverview’s Pride Prom will be held June 17 at The Regent, located at 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview. For more information, visit Facebook.com/PFLAGRiverview. Additional reporting by Ryan Williams-Jent.
