Nationwide — Officials at San Quentin State Prison in California held their first-ever father-daughter prom, bringing together inmates and their daughters after a two-month workshop that helped incarcerated fathers rebuild trust and reconnect with their daughters through open communication and emotional growth.
For many of the 18 participating fathers, it was their first time wearing a tuxedo, sharing a dance, or spending uninterrupted time face-to-face with their daughters. For some, it was their first meeting ever. The night was filled with music, hugs, and tearful reunions inside the prison chapel.
According to KTVU, the event followed an eight-week family communication workshop created by Tam Nguyen, a San Quentin inmate and prison reform advocate. Nguyen led the fathers through reflection activities and emotional exercises aimed at strengthening family bonds. The men committed to regular communication, completed assignments, and explored healthier ways to express their feelings.
On April 5, after weeks of effort, the dads and daughters celebrated with a prom night that included a red carpet welcome, dancing, games, and a special certificate ceremony for workshop graduates. Other daughters even traveled from across the country to attend.
A video from the night captured some of the most emotional scenes: a father seeing his daughter up close for the first time. They hugged, cried, and held each other tightly.
For another father, Steven Embrey, it was a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Just weeks later, his daughter Tiara died in a car crash. “I’m so happy I participated in the prom, and I got to see her. She was so beautiful that day. I have so many beautiful memories,” he said.
Other families also reflected on how the event helped them grow. One daughter described the experience as “surreal and a dream come true.” Another said it helped deepen her understanding and respect for her father.
San Quentin officials praised the event, calling it a step toward healing and rehabilitation. They’ve already started planning the next prom to continue helping families reconnect and rebuild.