11th annual Queer Prom takes place in Pilsen

The Queer Prom (which took place at the National Museum of Mexican Art on May 20) was created 11 years ago to allow LGBTQ young people & allies to celebrate fearlessly & unapologetically who they are.

Unlike CPS-sponsored proms, this event provides information booths containing everything from safer sex information and kits to youth housing. The booths were provided by community partner organizations who sponsored the prom. Attendees come from schools all over Chicago.

When asked how they learned of the Queer Prom, many said they heard about it by word of mouth from past attendees and through social media. Some past attendees have even come back to volunteer because they want to keep the tradition alive and to make sure future attendees have just as much fun as they did.

Another thing you want see at a CPS promo is a drag show that showcases drag queens. The Queer Prom gives drag queen under 21 an opportunity to strut their stuff on stage. The evening’s show was hosted by Chicago’s Miss Continental Plus Milani Ninja. This year’s amazing performances included those done by Sindy Vicious, Azula Sapphire, Ophelia Monroe, Luna La Catrina and Naomi as well as a dance performance by Yassss Productions.

After the show the crowd danced the night away—including a conga line—to the sounds of DJ OCD.

—Ed Negron