The 28th Annual Celebration of Courage Awards and Gala is a night of celebration and recognition for activists and advocates in the LGBTIQ community.
The 28th Annual Celebration of Courage Awards and Gala
The 28th Annual Celebration of Courage Awards and Gala is not only a night of celebration and recognition, but also a platform for activists and advocates to come together and reaffirm their commitment to the advancement of LGBTIQ rights.
Billy Porter: The Outspoken Award
This year’s event, set to take place in the vibrant city of New York, will honour the esteemed and influential Billy Porter with the Outspoken Award. Porter’s remarkable contributions to the entertainment industry, coupled with his unwavering advocacy for the LGBTIQ community, have solidified his position as a true trailblazer.
Porter’s Impact and Advocacy
Porter’s impact extends far beyond his artistic endeavors. As a Global Citizen Ambassador, he uses his platform to champion LGBTIQ rights and promote inclusivity and acceptance. His notable work on projects such as FX’s Emmy and Golden Globe-nominated drama «Pose» and the Broadway musical «Kinky Boots» not only showcases his immense talent, but also sheds light on important social issues. Through his performances, Porter has been able to bring visibility to the struggles faced by the LGBTIQ community and spark conversations that lead to greater understanding and acceptance.
Porter’s Commitment to the Cause
In response to receiving the Outspoken Award, Porter expressed his gratitude and commitment to the cause. He emphasized the importance of fighting for the rights and dignity of LGBTIQ individuals around the world, stating that he will continue to speak out and stand with Outright International until every LGBTIQ person knows they are loved and seen. His dedication to the cause serves as an inspiration to activists and advocates everywhere, reminding them of the importance of using their platforms to effect positive change.
The Importance of the Celebration of Courage Awards and Gala
The Celebration of Courage Awards and Gala is not only a night to honor individuals like Billy Porter, but also an opportunity for individuals from civil society, government, philanthropy, and business to come together and forge partnerships in the pursuit of better LGBTIQ lives. This year’s event holds particular significance as Wilson Cruz, the 2023 recipient of the Outspoken Award, will be present to bestow the honour upon Porter. This adds an extra touch of significance to an already momentous occasion, as it symbolises the passing of the torch from one influential advocate to another.
Honouring Mitini Nepal and the Adobe Foundation
In addition to recognising Porter’s exceptional contributions, the Celebration of Courage Awards and Gala will also honour Mitini Nepal and the Adobe Foundation for their remarkable achievements and impact on LGBTIQ communities worldwide.
Mitini Nepal: The Felipa de Souza Award
Mitini Nepal, a pioneering non-governmental organization, will be presented with Outright’s Felipa de Souza Award. This accolade recognizes the courage and activism of grassroots groups and individuals who have thrived in the face of adversity. Mitini Nepal has been a beacon of hope for lesbians, bisexuals, and transgender individuals in the country, providing them with a safe space to access vital services and support.
The Adobe Foundation: The Outstanding Award
The Adobe Foundation, on the other hand, will be honored with the Outstanding Award for their dedication to advancing human rights for LGBTIQ people. The foundation’s commitment to fostering positive change through the promotion of creative and digital literacy, social equity and opportunity, and active community engagement has made a significant impact. Their Equity and Advancement Initiative (EAI) addresses systemic barriers to opportunity and advances social equity within Adobe’s businesses and communities. Through their support, Outright International has been able to bring about meaningful change for LGBTIQ people globally.
Bebe Zahara Benet: The Host
To ensure the success of the gala, the dynamic Bebe Zahara Benet has been chosen as the host. With her multi-faceted talents as a singer-songwriter, visual artist, TV personality, and activist, Benet has captivated audiences worldwide and emerged as a rising force in global music and pop culture. Her presence adds an extra layer of excitement and energy to the event, solidifying her legacy as a cultural icon.
Appreciation for Activists and Advocates
The Executive Director of Outright International, Maria Sjödin, expressed her appreciation for the activists being honoured at the gala. She emphasised the importance of celebrating the resilience and victories of the LGBTIQ global movement, even in the midst of adversity. Sjödin thanked activists like Billy Porter and Bebe Zahara Benet for lending their talents, voice, and platform to the cause, as well as Mitini Nepal and the Adobe Foundation for their unwavering dedication and support.
A Night of Recognition, Inspiration, and Commitment
The 28th Annual Celebration of Courage Awards and Gala promises to be an unforgettable evening, filled with recognition, inspiration, and a shared commitment to advancing the rights and well-being of the LGBTIQ community. It serves as a reminder that the fight for equality is ongoing, and that together, we can create a world where every individual, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, can live their lives openly, safely, and with dignity.
