The Moberly Correctional Center (MCC) in Moberly, Missouri saw the first official gathering of its incarcerated LGBT community on July 3.
With only two weeks of preparation, Amy Barker, Lindsey Coffey and TC organized this historic event at the prison’s outer yard pavilion area.
“I absolutely feel great that this community came together respectfully and acted responsibly,” said Barker, a transgender woman. “Nobody left the pavillion hungry — gay, straight or transgender.”
Food, which was donated by the prison’s LGBTQ community and supporters, included 270 hot dogs, 17 bags of chili and 14 bags of chips. Water coolers contained a blend of canteen drink mixes, while the party’s theme was B.Y.O.B — Bring Your Own Bowl. Organizers also gave 65 red, white and blue armbands to those who attended the event, which was held the day before Independence Day.
The prison’s custody staff were supportive and kept on the lookout for misconduct. Multiple non-LGBTQ offenders stopped by, hung out, asked questions and participated in the act of unity.
While the voices of the LGBTQ community have been concealed in the past, MCC has made great strides in its culture of equality, understanding and the freedom of self-expression.
Organizers said the event was overall a success. Barker concluded that she “can’t wait for next year.”