Gay, Lesbian Teens Attend Own Prom

A prom for gay and lesbian youths in Northern California offered something they couldn’t find at their regular schools: a chance to go to the dance without fear.

“In high school, they’re ostracized, laughed at and become the talk of the prom. And then it’s no longer a prom, it’s a political issue,” said Police officer Christine Orrey, who kept watch over a handful of protesters outside.

The Friday night event in this suburb east of San Francisco drew about 100 people.