Paarse Vrijdag / Specials

Paarse Vrijdag

The only queer people are those who don't love anybody.

- Rita Mae Brown

Background info

Spirit Day was started in 2010 by Canadian teenager Brittany McMillan. It was created in response to a number of bullying-related suicides of gay school students in 2010. Brittany says she wants Spirit Day to make just one person feel a little bit better about him- or herself, to feel safe enough in their own skin to be proud of who they are.

Spirit Day takes place every 3rd Thursday in October.

In the Netherlands, Paarse Vrijdag takes place every 2nd Friday in December.

Terminology

Find at least 3 terms that you are not familiar with, write them down and be able to explain them to class.

Listening

1. What is known about the White Horse Inn’s opening date?

a) It officially opened in 1933 and has documented evidence of this.

b) It opened around 1933, but the exact year is uncertain.

c) It opened in 1936 but only became known as a gay bar in the 1960s.

2. What was one of the key ways the White Horse Inn served its community during restrictive times?

a) It operated as a neutral venue for professional networking.

b) It hosted underground political meetings to challenge unjust laws.

c) It provided a covert place where individuals could safely express their identities.

3. What were some of the potential repercussions faced by patrons of LGBTQ-friendly spaces like the White Horse Inn?

a) Denial of banking privileges and severe fines

b) Public exposure in newspapers, arrest, and potential violence

c) Long prison sentences and permanent exile from their cities

4. Which key historical event occurred while the White Horse Inn remained open as a sanctuary?

a) The Compton’s Cafeteria Riots in San Francisco

b) The assassination of Harvey Milk in New York City

c) The introduction of California’s first civil union law in the 1980s

5. Despite changing social and political landscapes, what has remained consistent about the White Horse Inn?

a) Its role as a gathering place for people to explore and celebrate their identities

b) Its strict policies on public displays of affection to avoid scrutiny

c) Its shift from being a community-focused venue to a mainstream nightclub

Discussion

In groups of 3, you will discuss a question or statement on the topic. You'll switch groups afterwards and get a new question or statement.

Most importantly:

Absolutely no bullying!

Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but do ensure you give your opinion in a way which is respectful to others.

Reading

1. Self-Expression:

How does the guide suggest using fashion and accessories as tools for expressing personal identity? Provide examples from the text.

2. Creativity and Experimentation:

What does the guide mean by “fashion is your playground”? How might experimenting with different styles help someone discover or affirm their identity?

3. Building Resilience:

How does the guide connect the use of accessories, makeup, and hairstyles to personal strength and resilience?

4. Community Support:

According to the guide, why is finding a supportive community important, and how can it help individuals navigate challenges in school?

5. Empowerment and Confidence:

What strategies does the guide propose for navigating school with confidence, even in potentially restrictive or challenging environments?

For those who want to find out more

Some exceptional advice to take home..

Listening key: 1B 2C 3B 4A 5A