An anti-gay group’s attempt to ruin a formal for LGBTI youth backfired badly after people on social media responded by donating to the event instead. A Facebook page for 'Stop Safe Schools Coalition' is encouraging followers to buy tickets to an upcoming LGBTI youth formal in order to prevent young people from being able to attend. Ironically, the dance is not funded by Safe Schools Coalition, but another non-profit: Minus18.

After learning of the protest, people began donating to support Minus18 and the formal— exceeding $48,000 via chuffed.org so far (you can still donate). Organisers say they’re “ecstatic”, and are looking at making the event free for all by refunding tickets bought by those actually attending.