Anti-Dance, Anyone?

For the youth in the La Verne California Stake, the dancing at their high school events has gotten so inappropriate that it’s hard to even be there. “You can go to school dances and have the option to not inappropriately dance, but just being there, it has a bad atmosphere. You can’t have the Spirit with you there,” says Cameron Bodhaine, 17, of La Verne, California.

As a solution, Cameron planned an “Anti-Prom” event last spring. This past fall, he also planned an Anti-Homecoming, that took place on the same day as the school’s dance. He invited friends and their dates to join, and they had fun go-carting, eating dinner, and later watching a movie. They had a blast.

The idea has caught on, and there have been many other “Anti-” activities as alternatives to the school-sponsored dances. Laurel Quinn Alkonis, with some other girls, planned a similar activity for Sadies.

“Make a plan and let people know in advance,” Cameron advises youth who want to plan similar activities. “It’s a great way to get to know each other while upholding your standards, being respectful, and feeling comfortable.”

Photograph courtesy of Carrie Sharp