DSA-LA Hosts Y2K-Themed Prom Fundraiser
The Los Angeles chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) is throwing a Y2K-themed prom this Friday, a flashy event aimed at more than just nostalgia for the early 2000s.
This gathering serves as a fundraiser for various political initiatives by the DSA.
Set for 8 to 11 p.m. at the Friendship Auditorium in Los Feliz, the prom will feature music from the 2000s, a photo booth, DIY glitter tattoos, and a ceremony for prom king and queen, among other activities.
However, the organizers emphasize that the political message behind the event is clear.
They pose the question: “You despise capitalism, but enjoy dressing up?” and the answer can be found in the ticket price.
Tickets work on a pay-what-you-can basis, with suggested starting prices at $15 and options for $40 or more for those who can afford it. All tickets provide the same experience, regardless of price.
The proceeds will support the DSA’s political work.
Organizers are playing on the audience’s shared beliefs to encourage attendance. In one promotional clip, there’s a voice that says, “Why don’t you wave it like a Polaroid photo with the girls? But do your daughters support a free Palestine? Come to prom.”
Reportedly, the funds raised will help support efforts such as fighting ICE, protecting tenant and worker rights, electing socialist representatives, and building cities that prioritize people.
To keep expenses manageable, the group relies on volunteers for various roles like coordination and event setup. They often enlist local DJs and “celebrity chaperones” for little to no pay.
Members pitch in for costs related to supplies like photo booth materials and glitter tattoo stations, sometimes providing out-of-pocket contributions.
Utilizing public venues helps lower costs as well. The prom is hosted at the Friendship Auditorium, a city-managed venue where rental fees are considerably lower than at private locations that could charge between $10,000 and $35,000.
This reduced overhead allows more of the funds from ticket sales to support DSA-LA’s political causes, which include worker protections and tenant rights.
The political connections run deep. City Council member Eunice Hernandez, representing District 1, is an active DSA member. Similarly, District 13 councilman Hugo Sotomartínez has previously held leadership roles within the chapter.
DSA-LA is also backing Marissa Roy’s campaign for City Attorney and is set to hold an event for her the day after the prom.
Other candidates involved include Estuardo Mazariegos, running for City Council District 9, and Faiza Malik for District 11.
The dynamics with another candidate, Nitya Raman, appear to be more complex as she is a DSA member running for mayor against incumbent Karen Bass.
In short, organizers are blending political activism with touches of high school nostalgia in this event. “Do you think the government should serve the people? Do you miss dancing to Lil Jon with your crush? Then come to prom.”
