Pride Prom DMV

With a vibrant atmosphere, diverse music, and a supportive community— Pride Prom DMV is not just a celebration; it's a declaration of identity and resilience. Through laughter, dance, and shared experiences, attendees create lasting memories and forge bonds that extend beyond the dance floor. As the night unfolds, it becomes a testament to the strength and joy of LGBTQ+ youth, proudly asserting their right to be seen, heard, and celebrated for who they are.

Location

Pride Prom DMV will be hosted at an LGBTQ+-affirming space in Northwest Washington, DC. We recommend taking the Blue/Orange/Silver line to Farragut West or Red line metros to Dupont or Farragut North. The exact location of the Pride Prom DMV will be provided to attendees after a ticket is purchased.

• Dancing and DJ sets
• Drag performances
• A photobooth
• Prizes and giveaways
• Snacks, food, and drinks
• A resource fair with local LGBTQ-affirming organizations
• A quieter, decompression space
• A private outdoor patio

Dress to EXPRESS! Attendees are welcome to come dressed in whatever will make them feel the most confident and fully themselves. No matter your style preference, remember that the most important accessory is authenticity. So, whether you choose to rock a tailored suit, a chic ensemble, or a glamorous gown, wear it with confidence and pride as you celebrate love, diversity, and inclusivity at our unforgettable Pride Prom.

The Pride Prom DMV is hosted in an ADA/ACA-accessible space and will feature ASL interpreters. In addition, we have a dedicated decompression space where students will have access to LGBTQ-affirming mental health counselors and low-stimulation spots to decompress.

All attendees must be COVID-19 symptom-free. At this time, no masks are required, but you are welcome to wear them and we will have masks and hand sanitizer available.

Attendees must show picture proof of COVID-19 vaccination (2 vaccines + booster). You can bring a photo or the card. Those who have not been vaccinated must show proof of negative COVID test within 24 hours.

We are currently monitoring health guidelines and reserve the right to instate new COVID-19 protocols, including requiring masks, as new information becomes available. Should there be a known positive case of COVID-19 disclosed, we will let all registered attendees know of the exposure.

All attendees (including guests) agree to the following. There is a zero-tolerance policy for non-compliance and guests who do not adhere to these rules will be asked to leave:

1. All students ages 16-19 (or equivalent to a junior or senior-status at school) are welcome.
2. We want all attendees to feel welcome, accepted, valued, and included. Any form of behavior that causes discomfort, embarrassment, or exclusion is strictly prohibited. No weapons, nudity, sexual acts, fighting, harassment, name-calling, disrespect, or stealing will be tolerated.
3. When checking in, you must show a valid photo ID card- either state-issued (license, permit, ID card), passport, or school ID. We will be mainly checking for birthdates and faces, not names.
4. Respect everyone's identities and expressions- this includes using names and pronouns as requested by individuals.
5. Attendees agree to follow directions given by Pride Prom DMV staff, volunteers, and host venue staff at all times.
6. No alcohol or drugs of any kind may be possessed or consumed at the event or before coming to the event, including THC vapes. Anyone who is under the influence of any substance, regardless of age, will not be admitted.
7. Guests must have a ride home or be headed toward the metro by 9:15pm. We will have chaperones escorting attendees to the metro and busses.

The host venue features a trained security team who is incredibly familiar with working with LGBTQ+ communities and youth. When attendees enter, they will asked to show their photo ID, proof of COVID-19 vaccination/negative test, and ticket. All staff and volunteers working the event have received background checks. Persons, bags, backpacks and purses may be searched by Pride Prom DMV staff and volunteers, host site staff, and security if deemed necessary.

Additionally, we are working to secure chaperones to greet students at main metro stops around the venue so they have buddies to walk with them to the Prom. If you are not comfortable arriving in your full Prom look, bathrooms are available for you to change or do makeup.

Organizers

Pride Prom DMV is a collaborative event hosted by SMYAL, Capital Pride Alliance, and The DC Center for the LGBTQ+ Community

Host or Publisher SMYAL