Prom Edition
It's prom season! Because these dances are so meaningful for adults and students, every year proms become a place for social conflicts over sexuality, race, and gender to play out. Proms in many ways reflect dominant values. But they have historically been places where students have challenged the norms of their communities.
Episode Spotlight
In 1980, gays and lesbians in the U.S. had no legal right to attend high school prom with same-sex dates. Then Aaron Fricke sued his high school and set a powerful series of events into motion.
Lisa Bonos, "Are high school ‘promposals’ cute or too much? Here’s a guide to the trend."
Susanna Heller, "Native teens are using prom to make a statement about indigenous representation"
Colleen Henry, "Homestead prom queen: I didn't win for being transgender, I won for being me"
Erin Jensen and Sara M Moniuszko, "How prom fashion has evolved from ubiquitous gowns to include DIY and gender fluid options"
Avery Matera, "This Student's Prom Dress Was An Homage to Black Icons Like Michelle Obama and Oprah"
Joi-Marie McKenzie, "Prom night turns into a proposal for young couple: 'I was in complete shock'"
Associated Press, "LGBTQ teens in West Virginia create state's first 'rainbow' prom"
Mark Price, "Defiant Prom King who wore dress to SC dance says he'll wear one to graduation, too"
Jaclyn Schultz, "Prom controversy: gay couple cannot serve as King and King"
Ann Zaniewski, "'Modesty ponchos' to be doled out at Dearborn Divine Child HS prom"
