LGBTQ Teens tie-dye with pride

Teens from Out Boulder County’s, or OBC, youth program got a chance to meet in-person for the first time since the pandemic. Gathering under the pavilion at Roosevelt Park, the Longmont teens made tie-dyed shirts and got a chance to appreciate each other’s company face-to-face rather than through a computer screen.

The group was led by OBC Youth Program manager Jenna Howerton, as well as a couple of volunteers. The teens happily chatted away, discussing the plans for their designs and debating the colors they would use.

“There’s just something about in-person groups that don’t translate to online spaces,” Howerton said. “I think there’s something fitting that our first in-person activity is tie-dye for Pride month.”

Chris Castañeda just started with OBC as the new youth program assistant after graduating from the University of Colorado-Boulder in May. 

“As youth started to get vaccinated, we made the decision to do more hybrid (virtual and in-person events), and so this is kind of a way to welcome the youth back before Pride month ends,” Castañeda said. “And who doesn’t love tie-dye? Every tie-dye is going to be individualistic and a reflection of the time and energy you spent on it.”

Greg Rose, volunteer facilitator for the youth team, was there to help with the tie-dye and make his own shirt. 

“For me this is an opportunity to work with youth that I can identify with on some level, and hopefully provide them some support,” Rose said. “In the process I can feel rewarded as well.”

Over the hour meeting, the atmosphere was lively and relaxed. Teens and volunteers joked with each other as they shared colors and laughed about pools of dye.

“The group is a lot of fun, a nice place where I can be who I want and feel comfortable,” said Anna Bennett, a member of the teen group.