LA Celebrates Pride Month with Annual Gala
As Pride month approaches, Los Angeles gears up for a grand celebration of LGBTQ+ pride. The Los Angeles LGBT Center recently held its annual Gala, a star-studded event that honors the exceptional achievements of LGBTQ+ leaders and advocates. This gala serves as the organization’s most significant fundraising event of the year, generating funds for crucial programs that support queer and trans individuals in various areas of their lives.
The Los Angeles LGBT Center is the largest LGBTQ+ organization globally, offering a wide range of services, including health, social services and housing, culture and education, and leadership and advocacy. The annual gala plays a pivotal role in enabling the Center to continue its vital work in these areas.
The event saw the recognition of several remarkable individuals who have made significant contributions to the LGBTQ+ community. Cynthia Erivo, acclaimed for her outstanding achievements in entertainment and activism, was honored with the Schrader Award. This award acknowledges her relentless efforts in championing the LGBTQ+ community.
Another deserving honoree was Mickalene Thomas, who received the Vanguard Award for her unwavering advocacy as an out lesbian. Thomas has been instrumental in shedding light on the intricate intersectionalities of Black and female identity within the Western canon.
Additionally, MUNA, an influential band composed of Katie Gavin, Naomi McPherson, and Josette Maskin, received the Leslie Jordan Award for Excellence in the Arts. MUNA has garnered recognition over the years for their music and performances, including opening for Taylor Swift during her Eras tour.
The gala was hosted by actor and comedian Joel Kim Booster, who emphasized the profound significance of the Los Angeles LGBT Center within the community. Drawing from personal experience as a queer individual who faced housing insecurity and lacked a support system, Booster highlighted the life-saving impact of the Center’s work.
Lisa Rinna, a long-time ally and TV personality, expressed her joy and gratitude for being a part of the celebration. Rinna emphasized the importance of love and inclusion and shared her admiration for the LGBTQ+ community. She expressed her love for her LGBTQ+ friends, trans friends, and drag friends, emphasizing their significance as her chosen family.
Members of the band MUNA also expressed their gratitude and excitement for being honored at the gala. Naomi McPherson, on behalf of the band, emphasized their personal connection to the LGBTQ+ community and their commitment to staying connected and supportive, particularly in Los Angeles, their home base.
The Los Angeles LGBT Center continues to be a vital pillar of support and empowerment for the LGBTQ+ community. Through events like the annual gala, the Center raises funds to sustain its programs and services, ensuring that queer and trans individuals have access to comprehensive care, resources, and a vibrant community network.
To learn more about the Los Angeles LGBT Center and its ongoing work, visit their official website.
