Toronto Kiki Ballroom Alliance
Glossary
Ballroom
Referring to the underground sex-positive, by-for community founded by Black and Latinx LGBTQI+ youth in 1920's New York. Gaining traction in the 1960s during the HIV/ AIDS Epidemic.
Ball
Community-organised events that can be hosted by organisers, house members, organisations, community leaders, and houses; in which members will "walk" in efforts to showcase skills, gain accolades, trophies, cash and other prizes.
Category
Different segments of competition within balls as a way of highlighting every individual talent. Houses walk against each other in the many different "categories" that make up a ball. Categories are judged by a seasoned panel chosen by the organisers.
Walk
To compete in a "category".
LSS: Legends, Statements, & Stars.
Every ball begins with L(I)SS, this is a chance to recognize the Legends, (Icons), Strong Statements and Stars in the community. When called, this gives those spotlighted the opportunity to show the spectators, the panel, and the other competitors why we know their name. "I BET YOU KNOW MY NAME!" Those who have made a name for themselves on and off the ballroom floor and have been trailblazers for the community are deemed by current Legends and Icons. Earned and not owed.
House / Family
Beginning as a way of safety in travelling together to avoid violence due to queer identities.Ballroom houses consist of seasoned and new members of the community. They are led by a "Mother" or "Father", with the support of "GodParents", "Princesses & Princess", and sometimes "Aunties & Uncles". Known as management, they each have their separate roles in providing support to the "Children" of the house. Member's talents and interests are supported inside and outside of Ballroom, providing the familial stability that may be lacking elsewhere.
Parent
Responsible for leading the house and defending their children as a parent would. Ballroom parents often develop surrogate parental relationships with the children and will often take them on as their "gay/queer kids". Caring for them outside of Ballroom and assuming the role that may be present
GodParent
Responsible for leading the house and practices in the absence of a parent. Godparents assist with any subsequent duties in being a support system for both the parents and children.
Princesses & Princes
These are children of the house who are next in line for parenthood. They are being mentored to lead the house after the parents move on. They have minimal duties and are in charge of drawing attention to the house.
Aunties & Uncles
Not directly related to the house operations and may or may not walk. They assist in comforting, fostering growth, and caring for the house children. They will often provide support to the parents and Godparents outside and inside of house operations.