15TH Annual Equality Florida Key West Gala, March 28TH
The 15th Annual Equality Florida Key West Gala will be held on Saturday, March 28th from 6:30-8:30 pm at The Gardens Hotel, 526 Angela Street. This event is free and open to the public, although Equality Florida is hopeful that guests will be inspired to donate to support its work. Equality Florida is the largest statewide organization dedicated to securing justice and equality for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community.
Equality Florida’s highest honor, the Voice For Equality award, will be presented to Aaron Huntsman and William “Lee” Jones, Key West’s own heroes in the fight for marriage equality. Their case was the first to overturn the discriminatory ban on same-sex marriage in Florida. Rev. Steve Torrence of the Metropolitan Community Church married Aaron and Lee on the steps of the Monroe County Court House just after midnight on January 6, 2015.
Equality Florida has sponsored an essay contest at Key West High School. The theme “Tolerance into Acceptance: Embracing Diversity” has resulted in a number of strong essays. The winners will be announced at the Gala and will receive the following prizes: 1st Place – a Kindle Fire donated by Janet Hinkle and $250; 2nd Place – $150 and 3rd Place – $100. The cash prizes have been donated by The Key West Gay and Lesbian Community Center.
Equality Florida’s Deputy Director Stratton Pollitzer will be on hand to give a State of the State address.
Entertainment will be provided by The Love Lane Gang. A sumptuous appetizer buffet will be provided by caterer Teresa Wright.
A Sponsors’ Reception will be hosted from 5:30 – 6:30 pm just before the Gala. This is for donors of $500 and higher. Anyone wishing to support Equality Florida at this level may contact Evie Evers Kling at 305-296-3267 or 937-974-3336. An invitation to the Sponsors’ Reception will follow.