Las Vegas Came Out to “Speak the Truth” at the Annual HRC Dinner Gala

The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Las Vegas hosted its 4th Annual Gala at Paris Las Vegas Saturday night (8.29.09), giving people an opportunity to celebrate the passage of the Nevada Domestic Partnership Bill.  This year’s keynote address was delivered by United States Senator Harry Reid in front a crowd exceeding 600 attendees. The event raised more than $175,000 to help further HRC’s work towards equal rights for the LGBT community.

Before entering the gala, decorated in signature blue and gold décor, attendees enjoyed an ice-room themed reception.  Celebrity appearances included Holly Madison; Penn & Teller; Alec Mapa, cast member of Ugly Betty and Desperate Housewives; Josh Strickland; Anthony Cools; Bobby Slayton; Tim Weaver, celebrity chef; Le Reve cast members; Phantom cast members and Jubilee! Showgirls. Many distinguished state leaders were also in attendance.

This year, HRC honored Bob Forbuss with the “Lifetime Achievement Award” and Chris Giunchigliani with the 2009 recipient for HRC’s “Community Ally Award.”  Both have been longtime members of the Vegas community and actively involved in the LGBT fight for equality.

Money from the evening will help support Nevada’s HRC Field Consultant, a new HRC position for the state. The organization has hired Adrian Matanza to carry out political/field plans, focusing on the
following areas:

•         Advancing local, state and federal ordinances/legislation

•         Work with coalition partners on a range of topics including trans education

•         Plan for the 2010 election cycle