Portland's 'pink pony prom' celebrates LGBTQ+ community in photos

The pink rose boutonniere crafted by their mom and pinned to their pink-shouldered cowboy vest made the perfect ensemble for Lennon Sandoval to wear to ''pink pony prom.''

The Associated Press
June 13, 2025 at 12:15PM

PORTLAND, Ore. — The pink rose boutonniere crafted by their mom and pinned to their pink-shouldered cowboy vest made the perfect ensemble for Lennon Sandoval to wear to ''pink pony prom.''

This year's edition of the annual event, held to celebrate teen and young adult members of the LGBTQ+ community in Portland, Oregon, was inspired by ''Pink Pony Club,'' the popular Chappell Roan anthem about queer liberation and self-acceptance. It was organized by the Sexual & Gender Minority Youth Resource Center, part of New Avenues for Youth, a nonprofit dedicated to ending youth homelessness.

Drag artists paused the dancing to perform for attendees, who tossed faux money at the stage.

Earplugs rested on tables and signs directed attendees to a low-sensory area for those who needed a break from the stimulation.

Though some kept on dancing until the lights went on.

___

This is a documentary photo story curated by AP photo editors.

about the writer

about the writer

JENNY KANE

The Associated Press

More from Nation

Israel's ongoing attacks on Iranian nuclear sites killed 78 people and wounded more that 320 on Friday, said Iran's ambassador to the United Nations. The strikes killed generals and scientists, but the ambassador told the U.N. Security Council that ''the overwhelming majority'' of victims were civilians.