OutOxford is hosting its first pajama party-themed Code Pink on Thursday at Proud Larry’s.
The LGBTQ+ nonprofit organization OutOxford works to connect Oxford’s queer community members with one another and allies alike. OutOxford has hosted a number of Code Pink events throughout the past year, including the Halloween “Babadook Ball,” the Mardi Gras Ball at The Lyric, a community yoga class and more.
“We thought this pajama party would be really relaxing and a good ice-breaker for those who’ve never been to a Code Pink event before,” Blake Summers, co-founder of OutOxford, said. “Anyone wearing anything is welcome, and that’s what these events are about.”
Summers helped establish OutOxford in 2017 with local support from individuals and groups like the Sarah Isom Center for Women and Gender Studies to produce these Code Pink events.
“I’m proud of Oxford to have community members open enough to allow these (Code Pink) events to happen, especially through a gay organization,” Summers said. “Everywhere on the Square has been great and warm and friendly when trying to plan our events.”
OutOxford has support not only from the LGBTQ+ community but also from allies. Student Kate Vana considers herself an ally within the LGBTQ+ community and has participated in many Code Pink events. She said she is excited for the pajama party Code Pink coming up.
“I’ve always had a passion for supporting the LGBTQ+ community. They have it rough, especially in the South, so I want to help any way that I can,” Vana said. “I think it’s important for people to meet those within the LGBT community because it breaks down a lot of barriers and helps you realize that we’re really all not that different from each other.”
Student Sarah Sgro will DJ at Proud Larry’s for the event. Sgro has worked other Code Pink parties, including the “Babadook Ball” and last September’s “Thrift Store Scores.”
“I love curating playlists for Code Pink events with my co-DJ Reggie and getting wild on stage in a safe space for queer folks,” Sgro said. “Code Pink is the only party on the Square I know of organized for and by queer Oxonians and allies.”
After selling out tickets and reaching capacity at previous Code Pink events, the organizers said they encourage participants to arrive early to get into the pajama party.
“Regardless of the theme, dress however you’re most comfortable, and get there early. We’ve reached capacity an hour in at past events,” Sgro said.
The pajama party will have something for all kinds of partygoers to experience, whether they want to hang out with their friends in a calm atmosphere surrounded by blanket forts or party all night with drinks and dancing.
This Code Pink event will incorporate drag performances, giving individuals a chance to dress up and show off their best dance moves in a safe environment. Drag performers generally do not have the opportunity to showcase their talent in Oxford, so Code Pink often works to offer them inclusivity while simultaneously entertaining the masses.
Admission will be $5 for 21 and up and $7 for those under 21 at the door of Proud Larry’s and is open to 18 and up. The event has a dress code of slippers, Snuggies, onesies, and boxers, but birthday suits are strictly prohibited. The doors open at 7:30 p.m. Thursday featuring the drag show at 10:30 p.m.
“We just want people to come and be comfortable and safe,” Summers said. “We want people to be who they are, and we want to give them the freedom to express themselves.”
