Family Equality’s annual Night at the Pier was a resounding success, bringing together LGBTQ+ families, allies, and advocates to celebrate the changemakers who have tirelessly fought for equality and inclusivity. The glamorous gala took place at New York City’s Chelsea Piers and managed to raise an impressive $1.5 million in support of Family Equality’s mission to promote legal and lived equality for LGBTQ+ families across the nation.
One of the highlights of the evening was the presentation of the Luigi Caiola Luminary Award to Jason Weinberg, founding partner of Untitled Entertainment, and his husband Merritt Johnson, a talented screenwriter. The couple expressed their strong support for Family Equality and emphasized the importance of speaking out in these challenging times. Weinberg stated, “We don’t want our family to be pulled apart. We need to actually speak up and not be quiet,” while Johnson added, “We feel so strongly about Family Equality and the work that they do.”
The event also paid tribute to the monumental milestone of a decade of marriage equality, with special recognition given to Jim Obergefell, the lead plaintiff in the historic 2015 U.S. Supreme Court case that granted millions of Americans the right to marry. Obergefell’s presence at the gala underscored the significance of this achievement and the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights.
As actress Julianne Moore aptly put it, “Family comes in many different forms and at the root of that, it is based in love.” Her words resonated with all those in attendance, highlighting the diverse and inclusive nature of modern families.
The star-studded evening was attended by numerous celebrities who showed their support for Family Equality and the LGBTQ+ community. The gallery below captures the essence of the event and the joyous celebration of love and equality.
In conclusion, Family Equality’s Night at the Pier was a testament to the progress made in advancing LGBTQ+ rights and the continued efforts needed to ensure a more inclusive and accepting society for all. With the generous support of donors and advocates, Family Equality will continue its vital work in promoting equality and diversity within families nationwide.
Reporting by Antonio Ferme
[Image credit: Variety.com]
