Bebe Neuwirth is HRC's Ally for Equality

The Human Right's Campaign's annual Greater New York Gala, which took place on February 6 at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in Manhattan, held a greater significance this year. The gala's theme was "Speak the Truth," which the organization hoped would speak to the timely political debates regarding the United States military's "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy.

Not familiar with the HRC? According to the organization's website: "The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all." The HRC makes sure that LGBT members of society are portrayed accurately and fairly in the media and holds annual events like Saturday's gala, where they recognize the efforts that corporations and members of the community have made to this extent.

At this year's gala, Sarah Jessica Parker presented Time Warner with the Corporate Equality Award. In a press release, the HRC voiced the importance behind the theme of the event: "This year's dinner is themed 'Speak the Truth,' symbolizing the time for political representatives, allies, and members to put power in words to push for LGBT equality."

Bebe Neuwirth, a Tony-award-winning actress (soon to be seen in the Broadway musical version of The Addams Family) who is probably best known for her role as Lilith on the sitcom Frasier, was honored and presented with the HRC's Ally for Equality Award. The program for the night also included remarks from U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand from New York, who has been very active on the issue of relocation of LGBT refugees, as well as several speakers from the Broadway community.

Although this gala may seem like a small event, it is important to note the grassroots campaigns and efforts of organizations like the HRC. They take an active role in helping LGBT citizens feel more at ease and are currently very involved in the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" debates occurring in Washington. Honoring celebrities like Bebe Neuwirth and corporations who fight for equal rights helps raise awareness of the HRC's efforts. To learn more about the HRC or get involved, visit their website.

Photo courtesy of Insomniacpuppy via Wikimedia Commons