The National Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR) annual gala has been known for decades as one of the largest and best events for lesbians in the Bay Area and San Francisco Bay Times columnists attending report that indeed it is.
A sold out crowd gathered at The Conservatory at One Sansome in San Francisco on Saturday, May 18, 2024, to attend this popular event. They came from all parts of the Bay Area, the nation, as well as from abroad.
NCLR Executive Director Imani Rupert-Gordon and other members of the staff joined board members, and other volunteers, supporters, and guests for a full evening of activities. The reception, dinner, and after party were held in one location, with music provided by DJ Christie James.
Alok Vaid-Menon, who is a celebrated comedian, poet, author, actor, and public speaker, was the special guest, bringing his inspiration to the program. Known for his far-reaching advocacy, he has a reputation as a trailblazer for gender fluidity and LGBTQ+ representation, and he has notable awards from the ACLU, The Advocate, and others. He serves with former First Lady Michelle Obama as co-chair of the When We All Vote voting rights organization.
Equality Florida Executive Director Nadine Smith received NCLR’s 2024 Vanguard Award noting her work as a champion for justice in Florida and advocacy to defeat discriminatory legislation. Having served as one of the national co-chairs of the 1993 March on Washington, she was invited to the historic meeting with then President Bill Clinton, the first Oval Office meeting between a sitting president and LGBTQ community leaders. Smith has many more notable accomplishments and currently serves as chair of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights Florida Advisory Committee.
https://www.nclrights.org/
Published on May 23, 2024
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