The Los Angeles Gay & Lesbian Center celebrated 40 years of service to the LGBT community on November 12 with a star-studded gala and auction. Neil Patrick Harris, his partner David Burtka and Chaz Bono were honored during a program hosted by Leslie Jordan.
Jane Lynch, David Arquette, Karina Smirnoff, Dita Von Teese, Meredith Baxter and Sara Gilbert were also in attendance.
Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka received the Rand Schrader Distinguished Achievement Award. “As a couple, Neil and David are respected and loved by the LGBT community,” says Center CEO Lorri L. Jean. “They are role models to many, especially our youth, for how to live openly, with honesty and integrity. And with their support over the years for many LGBT services organizations, they exemplify the Center’s mission of empowering, healing, advocating and leading in the LGBT community.”
Chaz Bono received the Board of Directors Award. “Chaz has been a trailblazer in our community for many years, bravely speaking his truth and working to make our movement stronger. He has continued that leadership since coming out as a transgender man. No other person has done more than Chaz to promote visibility and understanding about the reality of transgender people,” says Jean.
The gala included a chic cocktail reception, an extensive live and silent auction, dinner and fabulous entertainment. Proceeds from the event support the Center’s services for the LGBT community. Check out the photos – courtesy of Lydia Marcus Photography - below:
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