San Quentin incarcerated fathers dance with their daughters at first-ever ‘Parenting Prom’

ON A SATURDAY AFTERNOON earlier this month, 17 incarcerated fathers in black tuxedos at San Quentin Rehabilitation Center watched their beautiful daughters in dresses walk down a long strip of red carpet. The fathers tied corsages around their daughters’ wrists and escorted them inside a first-of-its-kind Parenting Prom at the prison.

The prison chapel was converted into a ballroom with huge black drapes, colorful lighting and an illuminated dance floor. There were 25 daughters, ranging from ages 7 to 27. Correctional officers, guardians, mothers, and volunteers cheered as each reunion took place. Some people were in tears.