A performance by music artist Vinita was among many activities provided at Bakersfield College’s Gay Straight Association’s winter formal on Nov. 22.
Griselda Delgado, treasurer and former vice president of GSA, was a key player in the planning of the formal, alongside the president of GSA, Trina Goree.
According to Delgado, the formal was held in order to promote equality among the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Questioning community by allowing it an opportunity to go to a formal that did not restrict the sex of a date.
She explained that LGBTQ students are not allowed to have same-sex dates at high school dances.
Along with the live performance by Vinita, who was available to guests for a “meet and greet,” there was also a live DJ, a lip sync contest sponsored by music artist Kwanza Jones, a raffle, dancing, snacks, a free photo booth, and the crowning of a “nongender-specific” king and queen, chosen at random.
Guests of the formal were provided with the option to sign a pledge to take part in Kwanza Jones’ campaign to “Stop Hate.” Also, “Stop Hate Swag” was provided, courtesy of Kwanza Jones, as prizes and merchandise available for sale.
“Stop Hate Swag is a part of singer Kwanza Jones’ campaign to stop hate around the world,” Delgado said. “She provided hats, beanies, and T-shirts for our guests to win or purchase, all thanks to fellow club member Haley Bogue, who got both Kwanza Jones’ people and Vinita to come to our formal.”
According to Delgado, GSA members Casey Walker and Jessica Shiell were crowned king and queen.
Delgado explained that the club decided to choose its royalty at random in order for every guest to have a chance to win, stating, “We had everyone put their name on a piece of paper and toward the end of the night, we picked names out and whoever was chosen was crowned.”
According to Delgado, GSA has a diverse membership, some members being of the LGBTQ community and some “straight supporters.” Much like the diversity of the club, Delgado explained that everyone was welcomed to the formal.