The night before the highly anticipated Met Gala, a different kind of gala took place in Brooklyn at the Bell House, a concert venue known for its alternative events. The second annual Debt Gala offered a unique and meaningful alternative to the extravagant Met Gala, with a theme of “Sleeping Baddies: Slumber Party.”
Participants at the Debt Gala embraced the theme by donning bathrobes, pajamas, and fuzzy slippers, along with sleep masks and other sleep-related accessories. The event aimed to raise awareness about personal debt burden and healthcare inequality, with proceeds from ticket sales going towards organizations that help relieve medical debt.
One attendee, Allison Gould, expressed her support for the event, stating, “As an independent physical therapist, I’m a fan of the message here, and healthcare access is a very important topic to me.” Others, like John St. Denis, an ICU nurse, criticized the Met Gala as “vapid and silly,” highlighting the importance of addressing real-world issues like medical debt.
The event featured homemade costumes, including a dress made from teddy bears and a display of crocheted clothing designs that critiqued the healthcare system. The founders of the Debt Gala, Molly Gaebe, Amanda Corday, and Tom Costello, started the event as a response to the disconnect they felt from the lavish Met Gala.
The night’s entertainment included a variety show hosted by the queer humor musical comedy duo Zach and Drew, featuring comedians and drag artists. The L Train Brass Band closed out the night with soulful covers, as guests in pajamas and slippers danced the night away.
Overall, the Debt Gala provided a platform for guests to have fun while also addressing important social justice issues. As attendees dispersed onto the Brooklyn street, the event left a lasting impact and sparked conversations about the importance of addressing personal debt and healthcare inequality.
